3D Printed Gelatin and Xanthan-Based Architectures for Soft Tissue Engineering
摘要
Among the current 3D (bio)printing techniques (inkjet, extrusion, laser), extrusion is distinguished by its affordability and its capability to produce biomimetic structures. The fabrication of (bio)printed scaffolds with advantageous characteristics needs biocompatible (bio)inks, tailored to the particular application. This study aims to generate inks based on gelatin and xanthan (in various ratios), 3D printing and tests as scaffolds for skin tissue engineering. The printed polymer scaffolds were examined for their morphological properties by stereoscopic microscopy, chemical structure (FT-IR analysis) and were further assessed in terms of retention capacity for simulated biological fluids, enzymatic degradation, and cytotoxicity. The trials conducted needed enhancements of the mechanical properties. In this context, polymers chemically altered by the methacrylation reaction (GelMA and XGMA) were employed, utilizing LAP as a photocrosslinking initiator and riboflavin as a crosslinking agent. After conducting swelling and degradation experiments, it was determined that materials produced through double crosslinking exhibit superior qualities compared to those derived from gelatin and xanthan. Also, the bioadhesive properties were improved through the polymers methacrylation reaction, due to a better interaction between the polymers. The scaffold’s interaction with the cells confirmed their compatibility, the cells preserving the characteristic morphology, indicating their potential application in soft tissue engineering.