Double-Network Hydrogel 3D BioPrinting Biocompatible with Fibroblast Cells for Tissue Engineering Applications

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• 3D Bioprinting

Background:

• Developing advanced bioinks is crucial for creating functional tissue-engineered constructs.
• Hydrogels offer promising scaffolds due to their biocompatibility and tunable properties.
• Combining poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) and sodium alginate (SA) presents a synergistic approach for enhanced bioink performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To formulate and characterize a biocompatible hydrogel bioink for 3D bioprinting using PEGDA and SA.
• To optimize micro-extrusion printing parameters for precise scaffold fabrication.
• To evaluate the printability, mechanical properties, and cytocompatibility of the developed bioink.

Main Methods:

• A double-network hydrogel bioink was synthesized by integrating PEGDA and SA.
• Fibroblast cells were encapsulated within the bioink.
• Micro-extrusion 3D bioprinting was performed using a Reg4Life bioprinter.
• Rheological, mechanical, printability, and biocompatibility assessments were conducted.

Main Results:

• Optimized printing parameters resulted in precise structure development with controlled line widths and minimal angle deviation.
• The bioink exhibited suitable rheological properties (viscosity, shear-thinning) for extrusion.
• Mechanical characterization showed a compressive modulus of 0.38 MPa.
• High cell viability (82.65% after 48h) confirmed the bioink's biocompatibility.

Conclusions:

• The PEGDA-SA hydrogel bioink is a reliable material for 3D bioprinting.
• The developed bioink possesses excellent mechanical characteristics and supports high cell viability.
• This technology shows significant promise for fabricating advanced tissue-engineered scaffolds.