Nozzle-Free Hypersonic Bio-printing: Enabling Precise 3D Tissues Construction with Enhanced Cell Survival

The development of functional tissues holds paramount importance in the realms of regenerative medicine and biological research. Existing printing techniques, however, encounter formidable challenges when it comes to precisely and biocompatibly arranging bioinks (comprising cells and materials) into three-dimensional (3D) structures while simultaneously achieving high cell concentrations. These limitations pose significant barriers to cell growth, interactions, and functions. In this research, we pioneer the hypersonic droplet printing technology. Dedicatedly designed semi-opened printer head is developed by integrating a gigahertz (GHz) bulk acoustic wave resonator into a microchannel. The cell concentration can be precisely modulated in real time via flow control. Leveraging its nozzle-free design, this hypersonic bio-printer enables stable printing of high-concentration cells without the risk of clogging. It is capable of printing droplets of varying sizes, all containing cells. Notably, the cell viability (95%) achieved with this technology surpasses that of inkjet printing and extrusion methods. The compact printer associated with this technology allows for flexible integration, facilitating the precise deposition of diverse bioinks onto different substrates. As a proof of concept, we have successfully fabricated various 3D structures with excellent cell viability. This novel technology represents a significant step forward in bioprinting, with the potential to revolutionize the creation of functional native tissues, organoids, and disease models.Clinical Relevance- This technology establishes the ability of functional tissues fabrication, which provides a convenient way to prepare models for clinical medicine and drug tests.