Mechanobiology in Stem Cell-Based Bioprinting

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Stem Cell Biology
• Mechanobiology

Background:

• Stem cell bioprinting is a novel technique for tissue engineering.
• Biochemical cues have been extensively studied, but mechanobiology's role is underexplored.
• Mechanobiology, the study of mechanical forces in biological systems, is increasingly recognized as vital for stem cell behavior.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the critical role of mechanobiology in stem cell-based bioprinting.
• To highlight how bioink mechanics influence stem cell fate and functionality.
• To propose strategies for leveraging mechanobiology in tissue engineering.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on mechanobiology in stem cell bioprinting.
• Analysis of mechanotransduction pathways in various stem cell types.
• Identification of key mechanobiological requirements for print fidelity and stem cell function.

Main Results:

• Bioink mechanical properties significantly impact stem cell behavior and fate.
• Mechanobiology is essential for both printability and programming stem cell function.
• Four key mechanobiological requirements link print fidelity to stem cell mechanosensing.

Conclusions:

• Mechanobiology is a central regulator in stem cell bioprinting, influencing tissue fabrication and cell fate.
• Reframing bioink mechanics as a tunable parameter can enhance biofabrication and guide tissue development.
• This review provides a roadmap for utilizing mechanobiology in engineered tissues for clinical applications.