Graphene Oxide Modified Bioink for 3D-Bioprinting of Vascular Graft

Three-dimensional bioprinting (3DBP) has emerged as a promising technique for fabricating complex tissue constructs using bioinks that support cell growth and differentiation. However, the mechanical properties of bioinks remain a critical challenge in this area, particularly for vascular tissue applications. Herein, the combination of an inorganic (nano)material [graphene oxide (GO)] with an organic material (collagen) as possible ingredients of a bioink intended for vascular graft bioprinting was explored. Different bioink formulations were developed and compared in terms of rheology, printability, and the ability to support vascular cell growth in 3D scaffolds. The bioink modified with collagen and GO exhibited improved mechanical and viscoelastic properties compared with the control formulation. Additionally, the bioink showed full in vitro biocompatibility, with no signs of cytotoxicity. With future applications in mind, a series of scaffolds were successfully bioprinted with the proposed bioink. The coculture of human endothelial cells and muscle cells (C2C12) demonstrated its potential for vascular graft applications. In short, this work introduces a promising bioink for developing vascular grafts with enhanced mechanical and biological properties.