Integrated bioprinting of trachea-like structures based on tissue-specific bioink

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Tissue Engineering

Background:

• Segmental tracheal reconstruction faces challenges with current grafts, including poor blood supply and mechanical instability.
• Existing biomaterials struggle to replicate the native trachea's complex layered structure and mechanical properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a 3D-bioprinted chondro-fibrous integrated trachea (CFT) that mimics the natural trachea's structure.
• To evaluate the efficacy of customized tissue-specific hydrogels modified with glucomannan-peptide copolymer (GM-P) for tracheal regeneration.
• To assess the potential for clinical translation of engineered tracheal grafts.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a 3D-bioprinted trachea using iPSC-derived chondrocytes and fibroblasts within GM-P hydrogels.
• Mimicking the native trachea's layered organization with cartilage-like rings and fibrous connective layers.
• In vivo evaluation of tracheal regeneration in nude mice and segmental reconstruction in rabbits.

Main Results:

• The GM-P hydrogel enhanced interlayer bonding and promoted vascularization.
• In vivo studies demonstrated satisfactory mechanical adaptability and efficient physiological regeneration.
• Successful in situ segmental tracheal reconstruction in rabbits without airway collapse was achieved.

Conclusions:

• The developed 3D-bioprinted CFT effectively addresses limitations of current tracheal grafts.
• This approach, combining layered bioprinting, advanced hydrogels, and stem cell technology, offers a viable strategy for complex tissue engineering.
• The study provides a technical reference for constructing engineered tissues and organs, advancing clinical applications.