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PVA:ALG Hybrid Bioink for Biofabrication of 3D Neural Models
Lara Ece Celebi1,2, Özüm Yildirim-Semerci1, Ahu Arslan-Yildiz1
1Department of Bioengineering, Izmir Institute of Technology (IZTECH), Izmir 35430, Turkey.
ACS Omega
|April 6, 2026
Summary
This study developed a novel 3D bioprinted scaffold using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and alginate for neural tissue engineering. The hybrid scaffold demonstrated excellent biocompatibility and supported long-term neural cell viability and proliferation.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Tissue Engineering
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting offers tunable and reproducible biofabrication of in vitro neural tissue models.
- Hybrid bioinks combining natural and synthetic polymers enhance printability and biocompatibility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/alginate hybrid bioink for neural tissue engineering.
- To assess the suitability of the bioink for 3D bioprinting and its efficacy in supporting neural cell growth.
Main Methods:
- Rheological analysis and pore factor characterization determined optimal bioprinting parameters.
- PVA/alginate scaffolds were characterized for swelling and protein adsorption.
- SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells were cultured on 3D scaffolds to assess proliferation, viability, and morphology.
Main Results:
- Optimal bioprinting parameters: 15% alginate, 16% PVA, 0.03 M GTA, 5% CaCl2.
- Scaffolds exhibited ≥23-fold swelling and 1812.5 μg/mL protein adsorption.
- 3D cultures showed sustained neural cell viability up to 15 days, increased extracellular matrix secretion, and enhanced neural marker expression compared to 2D cultures.
Conclusions:
- The 3D bioprinted PVA/alginate scaffolds are suitable for neural tissue engineering.
- These scaffolds promote neural cell proliferation and viability, showing promise for modeling neurodegenerative diseases and drug development.
