| dc.description.abstract | In the medical field, there is a growing need for tissue replacements that are able to mimic the native structure and function of failing human tissues. 3D bioprinting is a manufacturing technique with the potential to fabricate patient-specific scaffolds for tissue engineering applications. Current bioinks consist of materials that lack shape-fidelity and modulatory abilities. These limitations need to be addressed in order to accurately mimic and sustain a functional human tissue. Bearing this in mind, there is a clinical need to develop scaffolds that are able to recapitulate the native properties of human tissues. Nanocomposite bioinks provide a tunable platform by altering concentrations and molecular weights of bioink components. An ink composed of gelatin methacrylate (GelMA), poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA), and nanosilicates permits for control over scaffold swelling, compression, and degradation, therefore permitting the fabrication of scaffolds that mimic the patient tissue’s innate structure. GelMA contains RGD domains that provide binding sites for cellular interactions, allowing for structure remodeling. Higher concentrations of GelMA in the bioink allow for increased cell interactions and limit overall swelling of the construct. PEGDA is a bioinert material that can modulate bioink mechanical properties through its molecular weight. Nanosilicates, through their unique structure, promote shear-thinning and recoverability of the bioink throughout the printing process, permitting for the fabrication of high fidelity structures. As a result, this novel nanocomposite bioink is a promising solution to the current lack of a high-fidelity, modulatory bioink. | en |
