Self-Contained Three-Dimensional Bioprinter for Applications in Cardiovascular Research

Bioprinting is a technique of creating 3D cell-laden structures by accurately dispensing biomaterial to form complex synthetic tissue. The printed constructs aim to mimic the native tissue by preserving the cell functionality and viability within the printed structure. The 3D bioprinting system presented in this paper aims to facilitate the process of 3D bioprinting through its ability to control the environmental parameters within an enclosed printing chamber. This design of the bioprinter targets to eliminate the need for a laminar flow hood, by regulating the necessary environmental conditions important for cell survival, especially during long duration prints. A syringe-based extrusion (SBE) deposition method comprising multiple nozzles is integrated into the system. This allows for a wider selection of biomaterials that can be used for the formation of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Tissue constructs composed of alginate-gelatin hydrogels were mixed with fibrinogen and human endothelial cells which were then characterized and compared using two methodologies: casted and bioprinted. Furthermore, vasculature was incorporated in the bioprinted constructs using sacrificial printing. Structural and functional characterization of the constructs were performed by assessing rheological, mechanical properties, and analyzing live-dead assay measurements.