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Updated: Aug 5, 2026
08:22
Microfluidic Bioprinting for Engineering Vascularized Tissues and Organoids
Published on: August 11, 2017
Vascularization in Biofabrication: Innovative Strategies for Advanced Tissue Models
Yvonne Kulicke1, Rafael Schmid1, Theresa Promny1
1Laboratory for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), D-91054 Erlangen, Germany.
Cells
|July 27, 2026
Summary
Biofabrication aims to create functional tissues but is limited by vascularization. This review explores strategies to improve blood vessel formation for better tissue survival and clinical applications.
Area of Science:
- Regenerative Medicine
- Biomaterials Science
- Tissue Engineering
Background:
- Biofabrication combines cells, biomaterials, and molecules to create functional tissues.
- Current limitations in biofabrication include insufficient vascularization, leading to cell death in larger constructs.
- Vascular integration is critical for the survival of implanted biofabricated tissues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current strategies for in vitro and in vivo vascularization of biofabricated constructs.
- To highlight the role of vascular cells, signaling molecules, and biomaterials in vascularization.
- To discuss advanced vascularization models and their application in tissue engineering and disease modeling.
Main Methods:
- Review of literature on biofabrication and vascularization techniques.
- Summarization of vascular cell types, signaling molecules, and biomaterials used.
- Analysis of advanced models like the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) and arteriovenous (AV) loop.
Main Results:
- Various approaches exist for promoting vascularization in biofabricated tissues.
- Specific cell types, signaling molecules, and biomaterials enhance vascular network formation.
- Advanced models facilitate the study of vascularization in controlled environments.
Conclusions:
- Effective vascularization is key to overcoming size limitations in biofabrication.
- Improved vascularization will advance tissue replacement, personalized medicine, and reduce animal testing.
- Further research is needed for clinical translation of vascularized biofabricated constructs.
