3D Bioprinting of Cost-Effective Cell Laden Hydrogel Structures

The field of bioprinting has seen significant advances in the fabrication of cell-loaded hydrogel structures. Previous approaches were mostly limited to the use of bioinks supplied directly by printer manufacturers, which were often very expensive. This study, in contrast, proposes the development of inexpensive 3D printable hydrogels using natural biocompatible polymers. The process for developing the first, based on sodium alginate, involves a calcium ion cross-linking strategy for immediate stiffness after printing. The second based on Xanthan gum and bovine gelatin does not involve cross-linking. Using the CellInk Inkredible printer, 3D structures were successfully produced, the two different bioink have, therefore, exhibited a viscosity suitable for extrusion printing while ensuring their structural integrity. Furthermore, for alginate, the inclusion of 80 mM sodium chloride significantly extended the stability of the printed hydrogel without compromising cell viability. Their rheological properties, morphology and cell growth properties have been evaluated using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), an inverted microscope and a rheometer. In conclusion, the evaluation of these properties highlights the potential of these 3D printed constructs as frameworks for applications not only in the field of research but potentially also in regenerative medicine.