Biofabrication - IOPscience

Biofabrication - IOPscience
Biofabrication
International Society for Biofabrication
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Biofabrication
focuses on cutting-edge research regarding the use of cells, proteins, biological materials and biomaterials as building blocks to manufacture biological systems and/or therapeutic products. It is also the official journal of the
International Society for Biofabrication (ISBF)
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The following article is
Open access
Metabolic adaptation and fragility in healthy 3D
in vitro
skeletal muscle tissues exposed to chronic fatigue syndrome and Long COVID-19 sera
Sheeza Mughal
et al
2025
Biofabrication
17
045006
View article
, Metabolic adaptation and fragility in healthy 3D in vitro skeletal muscle tissues exposed to chronic fatigue syndrome and Long COVID-19 sera
PDF
, Metabolic adaptation and fragility in healthy 3D in vitro skeletal muscle tissues exposed to chronic fatigue syndrome and Long COVID-19 sera
Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) and Long Covid-19 (LC-19) are complex conditions with no diagnostic markers or consensus on disease progression. Despite extensive research, no
in vitro
model exists to study skeletal muscle wasting, peripheral weakness, or potential therapies. We developed 3D
in vitro
skeletal muscle tissues to map muscle adaptations to patient sera over time. Short exposures (48 H) to patient sera led to a significant reduction in muscle contractile strength. Transcriptomic analysis revealed the upregulation of protein translation, glycolytic enzymes, disturbances in calcium homeostasis, hypertrophy, and mitochondrial hyperfusion. Structural analyses confirmed myotube hypertrophy and elevated mitochondrial oxygen consumption In ME/CFS. While muscles initially adapted by increasing glycolysis, prolonged exposure (96–144 H) caused muscle fragility and weakness, with mitochondria fragmenting into a toroidal conformation. We propose that skeletal muscle tissue in ME/CFS and LC-19 progresses through a hypermetabolic state, leading to severe muscular and mitochondrial deterioration. This is the first study to suggest such transient metabolic adaptation.
The following article is
Open access
Volumetric bioprinting of bone-like mineralizing hydrogel constructs in the presence of high cell densities and mineral precursors
Bregje W M de Wildt
et al
2026
Biofabrication
18
025014
View article
, Volumetric bioprinting of bone-like mineralizing hydrogel constructs in the presence of high cell densities and mineral precursors
PDF
, Volumetric bioprinting of bone-like mineralizing hydrogel constructs in the presence of high cell densities and mineral precursors
A major challenge in bone organoid engineering is the embedding of osteocyte-like cells at high density within a mineralized matrix at the micro-scale and a trabecular-like architecture at the macro-scale. Volumetric bioprinting (VBP) enables rapid creation of complex cell-laden constructs through tomographic light projections. However, integrating both high cell densities and inorganic mineral precursors into VBP processes poses challenges due to light scattering, which can compromise print fidelity. In this study, we aim to combine bioinspired polymer-induced liquid-phase precursor (PILP) mineralization with VBP to fabricate cell-laden gelatin methacryloyl hydrogel constructs with amorphous mineral precursors. By stabilizing amorphous mineral precursors with poly-aspartic acid, light scattering is sufficiently reduced to enable printing. Tuning the refractive index of this mineralizing bioresin allows fast VBP of mineralized bone-like constructs with cell densities of up to 3 million cells ml
−1
. The constructs display high cell viability (>90%) and enhanced mineralization when cultured in osteogenic conditions with
-glycerophosphate. Encapsulated human mesenchymal stromal cells exhibit an early osteocytic phenotype after 28 d of differentiation. Collectively, this PILP-assisted VBP platform holds promise for the development of advanced
in vitro
bone models with more physiologically relevant architecture and cellular composition.
The following article is
Open access
Tumor organoids on-a-chip and the role of AI in predictive oncology and personalized cancer medicine
Maryam Sadat Mirlohi
et al
2026
Biofabrication
18
022005
View article
, Tumor organoids on-a-chip and the role of AI in predictive oncology and personalized cancer medicine
PDF
, Tumor organoids on-a-chip and the role of AI in predictive oncology and personalized cancer medicine
The drug development process in cancer faces significant challenges due to high failure rates in translational studies despite promising
in vitro
results. Additionally, conventional animal models exhibit inherent limitations and ethical concerns, constraining their relevance to cancer studies. Recognizing the pivotal role of the tumor microenvironment (TME) on cancer development and treatment outcomes, recent advancements in 3D microfluidic devices and tumor-on-a-chip models enabled researchers to explore the TME with enhanced accuracy and reliability, yielding novel insights. Notably, the emergence of physiological tumor models, particularly 3D models such as organoids derived from human tissues, provides a more accurate representation of
in vivo
tumor features. Moreover, 3D tumor models hold promise for diverse applications, including high-throughput drug testing, disease modeling, and regenerative medicine. Meanwhile, combining artificial intelligence (AI) with patient-derived tumor organoids has become a key strategy in predictive oncology and personalized cancer treatment. Furthermore, incorporating quantitative systems pharmacology and physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling, and pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics analysis with generative AI (Gen-AI) has revolutionized predictive oncology by enabling precise simulations of drug interactions and patient-specific responses, thereby enhancing the predictive accuracy of personalized cancer treatments. These advanced methodologies harness the power of AI algorithms to analyze intricate datasets derived from patient-specific tumor organoids. Moreover, the predictive modeling capabilities of Gen-AI facilitate the development of personalized treatment strategies customized for each patient, thereby revolutionizing oncology practice. This review explores the synergistic impact of tumor-on-a-chip models, organoids derived from patient tumors, and Gen-AI. Together, these technologies mark a significant advancement in precision medicine, offering promising opportunities to improve therapeutic effectiveness and treatment outcomes in cancer care.
The following article is
Open access
Vascularisation in 3D bioprinted models: emerging solutions engineering functional tissues and tumour models
Urszula Krajewska
et al
2026
Biofabrication
18
022001
View article
, Vascularisation in 3D bioprinted models: emerging solutions engineering functional tissues and tumour models
PDF
, Vascularisation in 3D bioprinted models: emerging solutions engineering functional tissues and tumour models
Three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting enables the fabrication of tissues with controlled architecture and cell composition, yet the formation of mature and functional vascular networks remains a major bottleneck for clinical translation. Constructs thicker than 100–200
m require stable and perfusable vasculature to sustain viability. This review compares vascularisation strategies in two contrasting contexts: regenerative tissue engineering, which requires hierarchical, mechanically stable networks capable of long-term perfusion and host integration, and tumour microenvironment modelling, which demands heterogeneous, leaky, and dynamically remodelling vasculature. Vascularisation approaches are examined across the complementary, technological and biological axes. The technological axis encompasses extrusion-, inkjet-, laser-, and microfluidic-assisted bioprinting methods, each with distinct trade-offs in resolution, cell viability, and scalability. Additionally, lumen-forming strategies, sacrificial, embedded, and coaxial printing, enable controlled formation of perfusable channels, while modular microgel-based bioinks enhance porosity, nutrient diffusion, and matrix remodelling. The biological axis comprises prevascularisation strategies and cellular mechanisms that drive functional vessel formation. Growth factor delivery (VEGF, FGF, PDGF) and hypoxia-driven angiogenesis provide biochemical stimuli, while co-culture systems combining endothelial cells with stromal partners (fibroblasts, pericytes, mesenchymal stem cells) promote endothelialisation, vessel stabilisation, and functional network formation. Mechanical and biochemical cues, including controlled flow, shear stress, and angiogenic factor gradients, are presented as key regulators of vascular maturation and perfusion stability. Validation metrics such as perfusion stability, oxygenation profiles, barrier integrity, and drug transport are emphasised as essential for assessing physiological relevance. Emerging technologies, including smart stimuli-responsive bioinks, 4D bioprinting enabling temporal tissue transformation, and AI-assisted adaptive volumetric fabrication, offer promising solutions for context-aware and dynamically regulated vascular systems. Together, this comparative framework guides strategy selection for either long-term regenerative perfusion or the pathophysiological complexity of tumour vascularisation, and provides practical design principles for translating vascularised tissue models toward clinical application and industrial-scale biofabrication.
The following article is
Open access
Biomechanical 3D tumor models on a micro-milled high-throughput force sensor array
Bashar Emon
et al
2026
Biofabrication
18
025015
View article
, Biomechanical 3D tumor models on a micro-milled high-throughput force sensor array
PDF
, Biomechanical 3D tumor models on a micro-milled high-throughput force sensor array
The tumor microenvironment plays a critical role in drug resistance, with extracellular matrix mechanics, cell-cell crosstalk, and transport barriers contributing to poor therapeutic outcomes. Traditional two-dimensional (2D) cultures fail to capture these features, and drug efficacy in 2D often does not translate to three-dimensional (3D) models or
in vivo
tumors. Here, we present a 3D tumor model integrated with a high-throughput biomechanical sensor array that enables simultaneous measurement of cellular forces and matrix remodeling. The platform, fabricated using a scalable and cost-effective micro-milling approach, supports the parallel generation of multiple tumor constructs within a single dish. To demonstrate feasibility, we formed
in vitro
tumors using patient-derived pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma organoids, cancer cells, and stromal fibroblasts. The sensors were then applied to characterize the evolving biophysical properties of these tumors (tissue force and stiffness) and to evaluate responses to chemotherapy drug, Gemcitabine, and the investigational agent, all-trans retinoic acid. Drug responses in 3D tumors were compared with those in 2D cultures. By combining biochemical and biomechanical readouts, this 3D platform provides a more physiologically relevant tumor model and a powerful tool for preclinical drug testing and personalized medicine.
The following article is
Open access
High-fidelity ‘top–down’ DLP bioprinting of multi-material soft tissue constructs enabled by computer vision–based layer control
Nadina Usseglio
et al
2026
Biofabrication
18
025018
View article
, High-fidelity ‘top–down’ DLP bioprinting of multi-material soft tissue constructs enabled by computer vision–based layer control
PDF
, High-fidelity ‘top–down’ DLP bioprinting of multi-material soft tissue constructs enabled by computer vision–based layer control
Bioprinting continues to redefine the frontiers of regenerative medicine by enabling the fabrication of complex, three-dimensional (3D) tissue constructs that emulate native biological and mechanical functions. However, despite significant progress, critical challenges remain, particularly in achieving precise multi-material integration, high-resolution patterning, and structural fidelity necessary for functional tissue engineering. A major limitation in ‘top–down’ vat photopolymerization bioprinting, especially digital light processing (DLP)-based approaches, lies in the precise control of layer thickness, a parameter that directly affects mechanical integrity, biological activity, and spatial resolution. This study presents a novel, automated platform designed to overcome one of the most persistent bottlenecks in multi-material top–down DLP bioprinting: the real-time, accurate measurement of the dynamic gap between the cured layer and the bioink surface. Through a comparative assessment of classical computer vision and deep learning (convolutional neural network-based) techniques, we demonstrate a system capable of achieving sub-0.1 mm precision (0.092 mm) with strong correlation to mechanical measurements (
= 0.994). This vision-based system adapts to a wide range of bioinks with varying viscosities, opacities, and photopolymerization kinetics, eliminating the need for manual recalibration during material switching. As a demonstration of its capabilities, we successfully printed a multimaterial vascular-like tissue structure with high spatial fidelity across heterogeneous biomaterials. Further, we bioprinted a multimaterial skin tissue model, featuring compartmentalized dermal/bone analogs, to enable
in vitro
functional evaluation. These case studies highlight the platform’s potential to advance biofabrication workflows by improving reproducibility, material adaptability, and structural precision, paving the way toward clinically scalable tissue manufacturing systems.
The following article is
Open access
A microfluidic-engineered vascularized endometrium micro-organoid platform for functional repair of intrauterine adhesion
Weijia Gu
et al
2026
Biofabrication
18
025011
View article
, A microfluidic-engineered vascularized endometrium micro-organoid platform for functional repair of intrauterine adhesion
PDF
, A microfluidic-engineered vascularized endometrium micro-organoid platform for functional repair of intrauterine adhesion
Intrauterine adhesion (IUA) is a prevalent gynecological disorder characterized by endometrial fibrosis and compromised regeneration, with a lack of effective clinical treatments. Here, we present a microfluidic biofabrication strategy to engineer vascularized endometrial micro-organoids that recapitulate the cellular complexity and function of native tissue. By co-encapsulating human endometrial stromal cells, epithelial organoids, and endothelial cells (HUVECs) in biocompatible hydrogel microspheres, we created 3D constructs supporting hormone responsiveness, decidualization, and pathological remodeling upon transforming growth factor-
stimulation. Transcriptomic profiling and single-cell sequencing revealed that the presence of endothelial cells alleviated hypoxia-induced inflammation and promoted epithelial homeostasis.
In vivo
transplantation into a murine IUA model led to improved engraftment, endometrial regeneration, and fertility recovery. This vascularized organoid system offers a scalable and translational platform for endometrial repair and disease modeling, highlighting the promise of biofabrication in reproductive regenerative medicine.
The following article is
Open access
Implantable ocular therapeutic systems: an insight into their clinical potential in the long-term treatment of ocular diseases
Hyeonji Kim
et al
2026
Biofabrication
18
022004
View article
, Implantable ocular therapeutic systems: an insight into their clinical potential in the long-term treatment of ocular diseases
PDF
, Implantable ocular therapeutic systems: an insight into their clinical potential in the long-term treatment of ocular diseases
Despite the rapid pace of biomedical engineering research, translating developed products into clinical practice remains challenging due to regulations, manufacturing, and long-term
in vivo
safety. The eye offers advantageous features to lower translational hurdles, making it an ideal clinical target and an approachable testbed for biofabricated implants. However, eyes also have anatomical and physiological barriers that hinder conventional ophthalmic delivery routes, leading to poor drug bioavailability. Advances in biofabrication and biomaterials used in ophthalmic therapeutic implants have the potential to address the current challenges. This review will explore biomaterials, biofabrication methods, and possible ocular implantation sites from the perspective of developing effective therapeutic implants. It also examines clinically available products and current clinical trials, along with recent advancements and next-generation technologies in ophthalmic therapeutic delivery implants. This review aims to provide insights that facilitate the translation of emerging ocular therapeutics into clinically available treatments.
The following article is
Open access
Proposal to assess printability of bioinks for extrusion-based bioprinting and evaluation of rheological properties governing bioprintability
Naomi Paxton
et al
2017
Biofabrication
044107
View article
, Proposal to assess printability of bioinks for extrusion-based bioprinting and evaluation of rheological properties governing bioprintability
PDF
, Proposal to assess printability of bioinks for extrusion-based bioprinting and evaluation of rheological properties governing bioprintability
The development and formulation of printable inks for extrusion-based 3D bioprinting has been a major challenge in the field of biofabrication. Inks, often polymer solutions with the addition of crosslinking to form hydrogels, must not only display adequate mechanical properties for the chosen application but also show high biocompatibility as well as printability. Here we describe a reproducible two-step method for the assessment of the printability of inks for bioprinting, focussing firstly on screening ink formulations to assess fibre formation and the ability to form 3D constructs before presenting a method for the rheological evaluation of inks to characterise the yield point, shear thinning and recovery behaviour. In conjunction, a mathematical model was formulated to provide a theoretical understanding of the pressure-driven, shear thinning extrusion of inks through needles in a bioprinter. The assessment methods were trialled with a commercially available crème, poloxamer 407, alginate-based inks and an alginate-gelatine composite material. Yield stress was investigated by applying a stress ramp to a number of inks, which demonstrated the necessity of high yield for printable materials. The shear thinning behaviour of the inks was then characterised by quantifying the degree of shear thinning and using the mathematical model to predict the window of printer operating parameters in which the materials could be printed. Furthermore, the model predicted high shear conditions and high residence times for cells at the walls of the needle and effects on cytocompatibility at different printing conditions. Finally, the ability of the materials to recover to their original viscosity after extrusion was examined using rotational recovery rheological measurements. Taken together, these assessment techniques revealed significant insights into the requirements for printable inks and shear conditions present during the extrusion process and allow the rapid and reproducible characterisation of a wide variety of inks for bioprinting.
The following article is
Open access
A definition of bioinks and their distinction from biomaterial inks
J Groll
et al
2019
Biofabrication
11
013001
View article
, A definition of bioinks and their distinction from biomaterial inks
PDF
, A definition of bioinks and their distinction from biomaterial inks
Biofabrication aims to fabricate biologically functional products through bioprinting or bioassembly (Groll
et al
2016
Biofabrication
013001). In biofabrication processes, cells are positioned at defined coordinates in three-dimensional space using automated and computer controlled techniques (Moroni
et al
2018
Trends Biotechnol.
36
384–402), usually with the aid of biomaterials that are either (i) directly processed with the cells as suspensions/dispersions, (ii) deposited simultaneously in a separate printing process, or (iii) used as a transient support material. Materials that are suited for biofabrication are often referred to as bioinks and have become an important area of research within the field. In view of this special issue on bioinks, we aim herein to briefly summarize the historic evolution of this term within the field of biofabrication. Furthermore, we propose a simple but general definition of bioinks, and clarify its distinction from biomaterial inks.
The following article is
Open access
Organobodies: a robust and size-controllable system for generating scalable hiPSC-derived liver organoids for drug toxicity screening
Mostafa Kiamehr
et al
2026
Biofabrication
18
025033
View article
, Organobodies: a robust and size-controllable system for generating scalable hiPSC-derived liver organoids for drug toxicity screening
PDF
, Organobodies: a robust and size-controllable system for generating scalable hiPSC-derived liver organoids for drug toxicity screening
Human hepatic organoids derived from pluripotent or adult stem cells offer powerful platforms for disease modeling and drug discovery. However, developing robust and scalable organoids capable of sustaining long-term functionality remains challenging. Here, we developed a novel, semi-defined approach using a self-assembling peptide and collagen I to create highly uniform human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived hepatic organoids in droplet format, which we term hepatic organobodies (OBs). This method enabled rapid, reproducible production of threedimensional (3D) liver tissues, which remained structurally, metabolically, and functionally stable for several weeks. OBs adopted hallmark hepatic morphology and expressed key hepatocyte genes, several at levels approaching freshly isolated primary human hepatocytes (PHHs). OBs secreted substantially higher albumin and A1AT compared with parallel two dimensional cultures, and transcriptomic profiling revealed marked enhancement of hepatic maturation, including elevated expression of
CYP3A4, CYP2C9
, and
CYP1A2
, and enrichment of PPAR signaling and fatty acid
-oxidation pathways. Additionally, OBs exhibited drug metabolizing activity comparable to classical Matrigel-based organoids and demonstrated CYP3A4 and CYP2C9 activities comparable to the ‘gold standard’ 3D PHH microtissues. Critically, OBs accurately predicted hepatotoxicity of more than 10 reference compounds, outperforming HepG2 cells and matching PHH-based benchmarks. Overall, we present OBs, a novel, and scalable 3D liver model that delivers advanced maturation and robust metabolic function. This platform offers a powerful and reproducible alternative to existing organoid systems as it avoids animal-derived, undefined matrices such as Matrigel, requires no specialized equipment, and relies on rapid self-curation of the hydrogel triggered by physiological salt concentrations, making the process fast, reproducible, broadly accessible, and scalable.
The following article is
Open access
Alginate bioink properties influence real-time impedance monitoring of cells during extrusion bioprinting
Alicia A Matavosian
et al
2026
Biofabrication
18
025031
View article
, Alginate bioink properties influence real-time impedance monitoring of cells during extrusion bioprinting
PDF
, Alginate bioink properties influence real-time impedance monitoring of cells during extrusion bioprinting
Bioprinting processes have greatly advanced in recent years through improvements in print accuracy and bioink optimization. Despite these advances, optimizing cell distribution and viability still relies on guess-and-check methods and destructive post-printing testing. The ability to monitor cells during printing would improve print quality and inform complex bioprinting processes, such as the generation of cellular gradients or controlled bioink transitions. Real-time monitoring using dielectric impedance spectroscopy (DIS) alleviates this burden by correlating impedance
|Z|
to cell properties. However, the influence of bioink properties on these measurements is unknown. Using an in-line impedance sensor, we assessed the effects of alginate bioink concentration, pH, and crosslinking on impedance over 1–25 000 kHz and determined how these properties influenced the detection of primary chondrocytes. In each scenario, impedance was highest in samples with low alginate concentration, low sample pH, or crosslinker. In nearly all samples, the addition of cells resulted in an increase in impedance compared to acellular samples, and this difference in impedance was used to quantify cell presence, termed |
cells
|. Higher alginate concentrations at 1 w/v% and 3 w/v% showed greater |
cells
|, indicating reliable cell detection. Although |
cells
| varied greatly with alginate or phosphate-buffered saline pH, similar measurements were found in pH resembling cell media. Optimal frequency ranges for monitoring acellular and cellular samples were from 10–100 kHz and 1000–25 000 kHz. Furthermore, cells were detected in real-time as acellular and cellular alginate bioinks were transitioned during bioprinting. This transition in cell concentration was spatially mapped to deposited bioink, providing a visual display of bioink transition using impedance. In summary, DIS detected cells suspended in alginate bioink and showed potential for real-time mapping of cell deposition.
The following article is
Open access
Radial constraint of plastically compressed human dermo-epidermal skin substitutes mitigates
in vitro
contraction and enhances structural maturity
Luca Pontiggia
et al
2026
Biofabrication
18
025032
View article
, Radial constraint of plastically compressed human dermo-epidermal skin substitutes mitigates in vitro contraction and enhances structural maturity
PDF
, Radial constraint of plastically compressed human dermo-epidermal skin substitutes mitigates in vitro contraction and enhances structural maturity
Dermo-epidermal skin substitutes (DESS) offer a promising approach for treating full-thickness skin defects, but prolonged
in vitro
culture leads to significant contraction of the engineered tissue, particularly in the presence of an epidermal layer and highly contractile donor cells. This compromises graft quality and reproducibility, posing a challenge for preclinical research. To overcome this limitation, we developed a customized anti-shrinkage device (ASD) designed to physically constrain the substitute while remaining compatible with the established fabrication process of plastically compressed DESS. Skin substitutes were cultured with and without the ASD, and their contraction behavior, morphology, and cellular organization were analyzed. Our results showed that the ASD effectively minimized tissue shrinkage (3%–8%, depending on the experimental settings), preserving morphology and reducing variability compared to non-constrained substitutes, which exhibited significant contraction (23%–36%) and irregular morphology. Fibroblasts in contraction-protected substitutes maintained an elongated, spindle-shaped morphology without pathological myofibroblast differentiation, as indicated by the absence of
- smooth muscle actin expression. Furthermore, the epidermal layer in contraction-protected substitutes exhibited improved structural organization. Overall, the ASD provides a user-friendly and effective engineering solution to mitigate contraction in bioengineered skin substitutes, enhancing their stability and reproducibility for preclinical applications. This approach may contribute to improving the reliability of advanced skin grafts for future clinical use.
AI-augmented ultrasound analysis of noninvasive quantification of hydrogels concentration for bioprinting
Cho Eun Lee
et al
2026
Biofabrication
18
025030
View article
, AI-augmented ultrasound analysis of noninvasive quantification of hydrogels concentration for bioprinting
PDF
, AI-augmented ultrasound analysis of noninvasive quantification of hydrogels concentration for bioprinting
Hydrogels, possessing biocompatibility and flexibility, are widely used across biomedical and industrial domains, with their concentration serving as a critical determinant of their physicochemical properties. However, conventional methods for concentration assessment exhibit significant limitations; invasive techniques damage the original state of the sample, while existing non-invasive approaches often lack precision at extreme concentration levels. To address these challenges, this study introduces a novel, highly accurate, non-invasive ultrasound-based methodology for hydrogel concentration analysis. A single-element ultrasound transducer was used to collect concentration data while preserving sample integrity. This approach mitigates the accuracy variation observed in existing technologies, enabling precise classification across all concentration levels. In particular, complex ultrasound signal pattern analysis was conducted using a convolutional neural network-based machine learning framework, achieving concentration classification with an accuracy exceeding 99%. Through highly accurate and non-destructive concentration classification, the proposed method holds substantial potential as a core technology for improving the quality control of hydrogel-based constructs.
The following article is
Open access
Integrating traction force microscopy and finite element analysis to assess hiPSC-CM mechanics on micropatterned substrates
Shayan Jannati
et al
2026
Biofabrication
18
025029
View article
, Integrating traction force microscopy and finite element analysis to assess hiPSC-CM mechanics on micropatterned substrates
PDF
, Integrating traction force microscopy and finite element analysis to assess hiPSC-CM mechanics on micropatterned substrates
Traction force microscopy (TFM) is a well-established technique for quantifying the forces that cells exert on their underlying substrates. However, its application to dynamically beating cells-such as cardiomyocytes (CMs) cultured as two-dimensional monolayers-remains challenging, particularly when the cells are grown on non-planar or micropatterned substrates. In this study, we present an integrated TFM–finite element analysis (FEA) workflow integrated with dual-plane fluorescence imaging. This approach enables quantification of the stress and strain energy density (SED) fields generated by human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived CMs (hiPSC-CMs) cultured on micropatterned polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) substrates with tunable stiffness. Substrate stiffness was tuned to mimic both healthy (∼5 kPa) and fibrotic (∼50 kPa) cardiac microenvironments. Displacement fields captured from the top and bottom planes of the micropatterns were interpolated and mapped onto a finite element model to reconstruct local stress and strain energy distributions. Results showed that substrate stiffness and micropatterning synergistically modulate cardiomyocyte contractility. Micropatterning promoted cellular alignment and directional force transmission, resulting in anisotropic stress fields and increased SED, particularly on stiff substrates. Moreover, proteomic data revealed a shift from oxidative phosphorylation to glycolysis in cells cultured on stiff micropatterned substrates, consistent with pathological cardiac remodeling. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that soft micropatterned substrates recreate a physiological cardiac microenvironment that supports oxidative metabolism and efficient contractility, whereas stiff micropatterned substrates mimic cardiac remodeling characterized by enhanced stress generation and glycolytic metabolism. The proposed TFM–FEA platform provides a robust and quantitative framework for studying cardiomyocyte mechanobiology under physiologically relevant conditions and can be readily applied to cardiac tissue engineering, disease modeling, and drug screening.
The following article is
Open access
Tumor organoids on-a-chip and the role of AI in predictive oncology and personalized cancer medicine
Maryam Sadat Mirlohi
et al
2026
Biofabrication
18
022005
View article
, Tumor organoids on-a-chip and the role of AI in predictive oncology and personalized cancer medicine
PDF
, Tumor organoids on-a-chip and the role of AI in predictive oncology and personalized cancer medicine
The drug development process in cancer faces significant challenges due to high failure rates in translational studies despite promising
in vitro
results. Additionally, conventional animal models exhibit inherent limitations and ethical concerns, constraining their relevance to cancer studies. Recognizing the pivotal role of the tumor microenvironment (TME) on cancer development and treatment outcomes, recent advancements in 3D microfluidic devices and tumor-on-a-chip models enabled researchers to explore the TME with enhanced accuracy and reliability, yielding novel insights. Notably, the emergence of physiological tumor models, particularly 3D models such as organoids derived from human tissues, provides a more accurate representation of
in vivo
tumor features. Moreover, 3D tumor models hold promise for diverse applications, including high-throughput drug testing, disease modeling, and regenerative medicine. Meanwhile, combining artificial intelligence (AI) with patient-derived tumor organoids has become a key strategy in predictive oncology and personalized cancer treatment. Furthermore, incorporating quantitative systems pharmacology and physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling, and pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics analysis with generative AI (Gen-AI) has revolutionized predictive oncology by enabling precise simulations of drug interactions and patient-specific responses, thereby enhancing the predictive accuracy of personalized cancer treatments. These advanced methodologies harness the power of AI algorithms to analyze intricate datasets derived from patient-specific tumor organoids. Moreover, the predictive modeling capabilities of Gen-AI facilitate the development of personalized treatment strategies customized for each patient, thereby revolutionizing oncology practice. This review explores the synergistic impact of tumor-on-a-chip models, organoids derived from patient tumors, and Gen-AI. Together, these technologies mark a significant advancement in precision medicine, offering promising opportunities to improve therapeutic effectiveness and treatment outcomes in cancer care.
The following article is
Open access
Implantable ocular therapeutic systems: an insight into their clinical potential in the long-term treatment of ocular diseases
Hyeonji Kim
et al
2026
Biofabrication
18
022004
View article
, Implantable ocular therapeutic systems: an insight into their clinical potential in the long-term treatment of ocular diseases
PDF
, Implantable ocular therapeutic systems: an insight into their clinical potential in the long-term treatment of ocular diseases
Despite the rapid pace of biomedical engineering research, translating developed products into clinical practice remains challenging due to regulations, manufacturing, and long-term
in vivo
safety. The eye offers advantageous features to lower translational hurdles, making it an ideal clinical target and an approachable testbed for biofabricated implants. However, eyes also have anatomical and physiological barriers that hinder conventional ophthalmic delivery routes, leading to poor drug bioavailability. Advances in biofabrication and biomaterials used in ophthalmic therapeutic implants have the potential to address the current challenges. This review will explore biomaterials, biofabrication methods, and possible ocular implantation sites from the perspective of developing effective therapeutic implants. It also examines clinically available products and current clinical trials, along with recent advancements and next-generation technologies in ophthalmic therapeutic delivery implants. This review aims to provide insights that facilitate the translation of emerging ocular therapeutics into clinically available treatments.
Orchestrating the Parkinson’s disease microenvironment in 3D for pathogenesis study and therapeutic development
Xingyu Tang
et al
2026
Biofabrication
18
022003
View article
, Orchestrating the Parkinson’s disease microenvironment in 3D for pathogenesis study and therapeutic development
PDF
, Orchestrating the Parkinson’s disease microenvironment in 3D for pathogenesis study and therapeutic development
The incidence of Parkinson’s disease (PD) has been steadily increasing globally, while traditional two-dimensional cell cultures and animal models face significant challenges in effectively elucidating its complex pathological mechanisms and screening potential drugs. Advanced
in vitro
models that incorporate patient-specific characteristics and three-dimensional (3D) microenvironments have emerged as powerful alternatives. This review first outlines current perspectives on PD etiology and pathogenesis, highlighting their implications for 3D modeling systems. A systematic comparison evaluates organoid, microfluidic, and 3D bioprinting platforms by leveraging their recent applications in PD mechanistic studies and therapeutic screening. The utilization of these cutting-edge technologies in PD model development not only deepens mechanistic insights but also streamlines therapeutic innovation, paving the way for effective treatments against this debilitating neurodegenerative disorder.
Organ-on-a-chip systems for osteochondral units: unveiling biomechanical and pathological mechanisms
Yuan Liu
et al
2026
Biofabrication
18
022002
View article
, Organ-on-a-chip systems for osteochondral units: unveiling biomechanical and pathological mechanisms
PDF
, Organ-on-a-chip systems for osteochondral units: unveiling biomechanical and pathological mechanisms
With the establishment of key principles governing osteochondral structure, function, and reconstruction, researchers have gained an expanded toolkit for the precise
in-vitro
reconstruction of osteochondral tissues. As a convergence of tissue engineering and microphysiological modeling, the biomechanical heterogeneity of the osteochondral layers, which is critical to joint function, can be precisely engineered within osteochondral unit-on-a-chip (OC-OoCs), making them ideal tools for studying physiological activities. Specifically speaking, OC-OoCs are regarded as a promising platform for investigating the complex physiology of the osteochondral unit and its pathophysiology in disorders such as osteoarthritis (OA) and osteochondritis dissecans (OCDs). In OA, multiple forms of endochondral ossification, including chondrocalcinosis and osteophyte formation, disrupt the normal tissue relationship of cartilage, subchondral bone plate, and subchondral trabecular bone. Additionally, cellular and molecular communication networks between cartilage and subchondral bone are altered due to increased vascularization, porosity, microcracks, and fissures. Recapitulating these key physiological factors is therefore a critical objective in OC-OoC design. However, incorporation of increasing numbers of physiological parameters inevitably elevates system complexity, posing challenges to chip-to-chip reproducibility and batch-to-batch consistency. Robust quality control (QC) and standardization are thus essential to enhance the reliability and translational value of OC-OoC-derived data. This review summarizes the current advancements in OC-OoCs technology for osteochondral research and, from both diseases oriented as well as translational and clinical perspectives, highlights OC-OoCs’ potential to advance our understanding of OA and facilitate the development of novel therapeutic strategies.
The following article is
Open access
Vascularisation in 3D bioprinted models: emerging solutions engineering functional tissues and tumour models
Urszula Krajewska
et al
2026
Biofabrication
18
022001
View article
, Vascularisation in 3D bioprinted models: emerging solutions engineering functional tissues and tumour models
PDF
, Vascularisation in 3D bioprinted models: emerging solutions engineering functional tissues and tumour models
Three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting enables the fabrication of tissues with controlled architecture and cell composition, yet the formation of mature and functional vascular networks remains a major bottleneck for clinical translation. Constructs thicker than 100–200
m require stable and perfusable vasculature to sustain viability. This review compares vascularisation strategies in two contrasting contexts: regenerative tissue engineering, which requires hierarchical, mechanically stable networks capable of long-term perfusion and host integration, and tumour microenvironment modelling, which demands heterogeneous, leaky, and dynamically remodelling vasculature. Vascularisation approaches are examined across the complementary, technological and biological axes. The technological axis encompasses extrusion-, inkjet-, laser-, and microfluidic-assisted bioprinting methods, each with distinct trade-offs in resolution, cell viability, and scalability. Additionally, lumen-forming strategies, sacrificial, embedded, and coaxial printing, enable controlled formation of perfusable channels, while modular microgel-based bioinks enhance porosity, nutrient diffusion, and matrix remodelling. The biological axis comprises prevascularisation strategies and cellular mechanisms that drive functional vessel formation. Growth factor delivery (VEGF, FGF, PDGF) and hypoxia-driven angiogenesis provide biochemical stimuli, while co-culture systems combining endothelial cells with stromal partners (fibroblasts, pericytes, mesenchymal stem cells) promote endothelialisation, vessel stabilisation, and functional network formation. Mechanical and biochemical cues, including controlled flow, shear stress, and angiogenic factor gradients, are presented as key regulators of vascular maturation and perfusion stability. Validation metrics such as perfusion stability, oxygenation profiles, barrier integrity, and drug transport are emphasised as essential for assessing physiological relevance. Emerging technologies, including smart stimuli-responsive bioinks, 4D bioprinting enabling temporal tissue transformation, and AI-assisted adaptive volumetric fabrication, offer promising solutions for context-aware and dynamically regulated vascular systems. Together, this comparative framework guides strategy selection for either long-term regenerative perfusion or the pathophysiological complexity of tumour vascularisation, and provides practical design principles for translating vascularised tissue models toward clinical application and industrial-scale biofabrication.
The following article is
Open access
Programmable morphogenesis: Integrating biophysical and genetic engineering tools to direct tissue formation
Burmas et al
View accepted manuscript
, Programmable morphogenesis: Integrating biophysical and genetic engineering tools to direct tissue formation
PDF
, Programmable morphogenesis: Integrating biophysical and genetic engineering tools to direct tissue formation
Engineering approaches, including microfluidics, bioprinting, and genetic engineering, have transformed the capacity to model tissue morphogenesis in vitro. These platforms enable precise programming of biophysical and chemical cues that influence collective cell behaviors, creating experimental systems for studying how cells integrate microenvironmental signals to drive developmental processes. This review examines engineered approaches for creating morphogenetic models and evaluates their complementary capabilities, constraints, and potential for integration. Microfluidic devices are discussed for generating stable biochemical gradients and controlling fluid dynamics in two-dimensional and three-dimensional configurations. Extrusion and digital light-processing (DLP) bioprinting enable the construction of spatially organized three-dimensional cellular assemblies with platform-specific trade-offs between resolution, viability, and scalability. Optogenetic systems provide spatiotemporal control over gene expression for patterning morphogenic events. The review systematically addresses technical and biological constraints, including gradient instability, resolution-viability trade-offs, phototoxicity, and the persistent gap between morphological patterning and functional maturation. We conclude with guidance for platform selection and a discussion of how integrating these complementary technologies may accelerate mechanistic understanding of morphogenesis.
Spheroid assembly in microwells of defined geometry for quantitative assessment of aggregation kinetics and shape engineering
Efremov et al
View accepted manuscript
, Spheroid assembly in microwells of defined geometry for quantitative assessment of aggregation kinetics and shape engineering
PDF
, Spheroid assembly in microwells of defined geometry for quantitative assessment of aggregation kinetics and shape engineering
Three-dimensional (3D) cell spheroids are widely used as in vitro tissue models, yet quantitative understanding of their morphogenesis remains limited. We present an integrated experimental–computational framework to analyze, model, and modulate the compaction of cell aggregates in agarose microwells of defined geometries. Custom 3D-printed stamps produced circular, square, and triangular microwells of equal cross-sectional area. Time-lapse imaging combined with AI-based segmentation enabled tracking of spheroid morphology, with circularity and projected area serving as quantitative descriptors of compaction. The process followed predictable exponential kinetics, with mesenchymal (HDF) spheroids compacting faster than epithelial (ARPE-19) ones. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations modeled spheroid rounding as a visco-capillary–driven process, where the extracted visco-capillary velocity unified experimental and simulated dynamics. Mechanical measurements by atomic force microscopy and compression confirmed that differences in surface tension predominantly governed the observed kinetics. Pharmacological modulation of cytoskeletal tension revealed that inhibition of contractility markedly altered spheroid formation dynamics, enabling the generation of stable, non-spherical aggregates. Using this principle as a shape-engineering strategy, we produced aggregates with distinct geometries (brick-like, prismatic, and star-shaped), characterized by an increased surface-to-volume ratio compared to conventional spheroids. Limitations of the approach include the use of pharmacological cytoskeletal modulation and constraints in geometric fidelity arising from printing resolution, agarose casting, cell filling, and intrinsic smoothing of sharp features during cell aggregation. Collectively, this work establishes a geometry-controlled platform for quantitative analysis of spheroid formation and mechanical behavior, and provides a versatile framework for designing cell aggregates with defined shapes.
The following article is
Open access
Nanoengineering conductive soft interfaces for electrogenic cell interactions: a review of materials, fabrication and functionalisation strategies
Guan et al
View accepted manuscript
, Nanoengineering conductive soft interfaces for electrogenic cell interactions: a review of materials, fabrication and functionalisation strategies
PDF
, Nanoengineering conductive soft interfaces for electrogenic cell interactions: a review of materials, fabrication and functionalisation strategies
Conductive soft materials are emerging as critical platforms for interfacing with electrogenic cells, such as neurons and cardiomyocytes. Unlike rigid metal electrodes, these materials offer tuneable conductivity for reliable electrical communication, tissue-like softness for mechanical compliance, and chemical or bioactive functionalities for effective integration with biological systems. However, achieving an optimal balance between conductivity, mechanical properties, and biocompatibility remains a significant challenge that is strongly dependent on the fabrication pathway selected. The array of advanced biofabrication methodologies continues to expand rapidly, enabling "top down" approaches that start with bulk materials or "bottom up" approaches that enable more precise formation of structures from molecular building blocks. To equip researchers with a practical toolkit for selecting application-specific materials and designing effective bio-interfaces in areas such as neuroengineering and cardiac modelling, here we provide a comprehensive review of fabrication and functionalisation strategies for these materials. We first introduce some key classes of conductive soft materials, highlighting their unique properties when interacting with electrogenic cells. Fabrication techniques, including spin-coating, electrospinning, moulding, lithography, and 3D printing, are then examined, with a focus on identifying their strengths and limitations in the context of specific bioelectronic applications. Finally, strategies for tailoring post-fabrication surface chemistry to enhance cell interaction and growth are discussed. In the final section, emerging opportunities and future directions for conductive soft interfaces are highlighted.
The following article is
Open access
Engineering cancer avatars with microfluidics, biofabrication and biosensors
Martins et al
View accepted manuscript
, Engineering cancer avatars with microfluidics, biofabrication and biosensors
PDF
, Engineering cancer avatars with microfluidics, biofabrication and biosensors
Microfluidics has revolutionized cancer research by transforming how we study, diagnose, and test treatments, providing valuable insights into disease mechanisms and therapeutic responses. Through miniaturization, automation, and parallelization, microfluidic devices have standardized analytical assays and enhanced the accuracy and reliability of diagnostic and screening procedures, attracting the interest of pharmaceutical industry, laboratories, and clinicians. The use of advanced biofabrication techniques and biomaterials has further enabled the creation of sophisticated microphysiological devices integrating biomimetic tissue-like structures, closely mimicking the cellular and structural complexity of the native tumor microenvironment. This advanced generation of microfluidic platforms surpass conventional approaches that rely on synthetic, rigid, and planar materials, providing a more realistic representation of cancer biology. Moreover, the incorporation of miniaturized biosensors enabling real-time, multiplex, and precise monitoring of biological processes and biomarker presence overcomes the limitations of traditional screening methods, generating high-resolution data that can directly inform clinical decision-making when translated into practice. Herein, we describe how the convergence of microfluidics, biofabrication, and biosensor technologies is shaping a new paradigm in cancer research, driving advancements in disease modeling, drug screening, and diagnosis. While challenges remain for widespread clinical adoption, this integrated approach holds immense potential to transform cancer management and improve patient outcome.
The following article is
Open access
Light-activated cartilage decellularised extracellular matrix hydrogels for engineering chondrogenic microenvironments with localised oxygen control
Li et al
View accepted manuscript
, Light-activated cartilage decellularised extracellular matrix hydrogels for engineering chondrogenic microenvironments with localised oxygen control
PDF
, Light-activated cartilage decellularised extracellular matrix hydrogels for engineering chondrogenic microenvironments with localised oxygen control
Cartilage tissue engineering requires biomaterials that can effectively maintain the tissue-specific functions of chondrocytes to enable the restoration of cartilage structure and function. Decellularised extracellular matrix (dECM)-derived hydrogels serve as tissue-specific biomaterials capable of preserving native biochemical cues and maintaining physiological chondrocyte phenotype in three-dimensional culture. However, their sol-gel transition relies heavily on collagen fibrillogenesis, a slow and poorly controllable process that limits mechanical tunability and suffers from inter-batch variability. Therefore, further efforts are required to functionalise cartilage dECM to achieve reproducible and controllable physicochemical properties. Here, we present a light-activated cartilage dECM hydrogel system based on ruthenium/sodium persulfate (Ru/SPS)-mediated dityrosine crosslinking, enabling rapid hydrogel formation under visible light irradiation while providing tunable mechanical properties and improved biological functionality. Comparison of the decellularisation protocols indicated that Triton X-100 combined with ammonium hydroxide efficiently eliminated residual DNA while preserving a substantial proportion of the native cartilage proteome. Pepsin-solubilised cartilage dECM hydrogels formed via dityrosine-based photo-crosslinking exhibited rapid gelation behaviour and superior mechanical characteristics compared to conventional thermally gelled dECM. The photo-crosslinked dECM hydrogels were cytocompatible, supported human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs), and favoured cartilage-specific phenotypes, as demonstrated by chondrogenic genes upregulation, including COL2A1 and ACAN, compared with gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) hydrogels. Importantly, this photo-crosslinking strategy overcomes the incompatibility between oxygen-sensitive redox-based photochemistry and hypoxic culture conditions, enabling the incorporation of oxygen-scavenging microcapsules to establish low-oxygen microenvironments. Under hypoxia, the cartilage dECM hydrogels promoted a more articular-like phenotype in hBMSC-derived chondrocytes, with transcriptomic features associated with TGF-β/SMAD2/3 and IGF-1/2–IGF-1R signalling. Collectively, these findings establish photo-crosslinked cartilage dECM hydrogels as a biomaterial platform with tunable mechanical properties and favourable biological functionality for cartilage tissue bioengineering and biomimetic in vitro cartilage models.
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The following article is
Open access
Organobodies: a robust and size-controllable system for generating scalable hiPSC-derived liver organoids for drug toxicity screening
Mostafa Kiamehr
et al
2026
Biofabrication
18
025033
View article
, Organobodies: a robust and size-controllable system for generating scalable hiPSC-derived liver organoids for drug toxicity screening
PDF
, Organobodies: a robust and size-controllable system for generating scalable hiPSC-derived liver organoids for drug toxicity screening
Human hepatic organoids derived from pluripotent or adult stem cells offer powerful platforms for disease modeling and drug discovery. However, developing robust and scalable organoids capable of sustaining long-term functionality remains challenging. Here, we developed a novel, semi-defined approach using a self-assembling peptide and collagen I to create highly uniform human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived hepatic organoids in droplet format, which we term hepatic organobodies (OBs). This method enabled rapid, reproducible production of threedimensional (3D) liver tissues, which remained structurally, metabolically, and functionally stable for several weeks. OBs adopted hallmark hepatic morphology and expressed key hepatocyte genes, several at levels approaching freshly isolated primary human hepatocytes (PHHs). OBs secreted substantially higher albumin and A1AT compared with parallel two dimensional cultures, and transcriptomic profiling revealed marked enhancement of hepatic maturation, including elevated expression of
CYP3A4, CYP2C9
, and
CYP1A2
, and enrichment of PPAR signaling and fatty acid
-oxidation pathways. Additionally, OBs exhibited drug metabolizing activity comparable to classical Matrigel-based organoids and demonstrated CYP3A4 and CYP2C9 activities comparable to the ‘gold standard’ 3D PHH microtissues. Critically, OBs accurately predicted hepatotoxicity of more than 10 reference compounds, outperforming HepG2 cells and matching PHH-based benchmarks. Overall, we present OBs, a novel, and scalable 3D liver model that delivers advanced maturation and robust metabolic function. This platform offers a powerful and reproducible alternative to existing organoid systems as it avoids animal-derived, undefined matrices such as Matrigel, requires no specialized equipment, and relies on rapid self-curation of the hydrogel triggered by physiological salt concentrations, making the process fast, reproducible, broadly accessible, and scalable.
The following article is
Open access
Programmable morphogenesis: Integrating biophysical and genetic engineering tools to direct tissue formation
Nathaniel C Burmas and Quinton Smith 2026
Biofabrication
View article
, Programmable morphogenesis: Integrating biophysical and genetic engineering tools to direct tissue formation
PDF
, Programmable morphogenesis: Integrating biophysical and genetic engineering tools to direct tissue formation
Engineering approaches, including microfluidics, bioprinting, and genetic engineering, have transformed the capacity to model tissue morphogenesis in vitro. These platforms enable precise programming of biophysical and chemical cues that influence collective cell behaviors, creating experimental systems for studying how cells integrate microenvironmental signals to drive developmental processes. This review examines engineered approaches for creating morphogenetic models and evaluates their complementary capabilities, constraints, and potential for integration. Microfluidic devices are discussed for generating stable biochemical gradients and controlling fluid dynamics in two-dimensional and three-dimensional configurations. Extrusion and digital light-processing (DLP) bioprinting enable the construction of spatially organized three-dimensional cellular assemblies with platform-specific trade-offs between resolution, viability, and scalability. Optogenetic systems provide spatiotemporal control over gene expression for patterning morphogenic events. The review systematically addresses technical and biological constraints, including gradient instability, resolution-viability trade-offs, phototoxicity, and the persistent gap between morphological patterning and functional maturation. We conclude with guidance for platform selection and a discussion of how integrating these complementary technologies may accelerate mechanistic understanding of morphogenesis.
The following article is
Open access
Alginate bioink properties influence real-time impedance monitoring of cells during extrusion bioprinting
Alicia A Matavosian
et al
2026
Biofabrication
18
025031
View article
, Alginate bioink properties influence real-time impedance monitoring of cells during extrusion bioprinting
PDF
, Alginate bioink properties influence real-time impedance monitoring of cells during extrusion bioprinting
Bioprinting processes have greatly advanced in recent years through improvements in print accuracy and bioink optimization. Despite these advances, optimizing cell distribution and viability still relies on guess-and-check methods and destructive post-printing testing. The ability to monitor cells during printing would improve print quality and inform complex bioprinting processes, such as the generation of cellular gradients or controlled bioink transitions. Real-time monitoring using dielectric impedance spectroscopy (DIS) alleviates this burden by correlating impedance
|Z|
to cell properties. However, the influence of bioink properties on these measurements is unknown. Using an in-line impedance sensor, we assessed the effects of alginate bioink concentration, pH, and crosslinking on impedance over 1–25 000 kHz and determined how these properties influenced the detection of primary chondrocytes. In each scenario, impedance was highest in samples with low alginate concentration, low sample pH, or crosslinker. In nearly all samples, the addition of cells resulted in an increase in impedance compared to acellular samples, and this difference in impedance was used to quantify cell presence, termed |
cells
|. Higher alginate concentrations at 1 w/v% and 3 w/v% showed greater |
cells
|, indicating reliable cell detection. Although |
cells
| varied greatly with alginate or phosphate-buffered saline pH, similar measurements were found in pH resembling cell media. Optimal frequency ranges for monitoring acellular and cellular samples were from 10–100 kHz and 1000–25 000 kHz. Furthermore, cells were detected in real-time as acellular and cellular alginate bioinks were transitioned during bioprinting. This transition in cell concentration was spatially mapped to deposited bioink, providing a visual display of bioink transition using impedance. In summary, DIS detected cells suspended in alginate bioink and showed potential for real-time mapping of cell deposition.
The following article is
Open access
Radial constraint of plastically compressed human dermo-epidermal skin substitutes mitigates
in vitro
contraction and enhances structural maturity
Luca Pontiggia
et al
2026
Biofabrication
18
025032
View article
, Radial constraint of plastically compressed human dermo-epidermal skin substitutes mitigates in vitro contraction and enhances structural maturity
PDF
, Radial constraint of plastically compressed human dermo-epidermal skin substitutes mitigates in vitro contraction and enhances structural maturity
Dermo-epidermal skin substitutes (DESS) offer a promising approach for treating full-thickness skin defects, but prolonged
in vitro
culture leads to significant contraction of the engineered tissue, particularly in the presence of an epidermal layer and highly contractile donor cells. This compromises graft quality and reproducibility, posing a challenge for preclinical research. To overcome this limitation, we developed a customized anti-shrinkage device (ASD) designed to physically constrain the substitute while remaining compatible with the established fabrication process of plastically compressed DESS. Skin substitutes were cultured with and without the ASD, and their contraction behavior, morphology, and cellular organization were analyzed. Our results showed that the ASD effectively minimized tissue shrinkage (3%–8%, depending on the experimental settings), preserving morphology and reducing variability compared to non-constrained substitutes, which exhibited significant contraction (23%–36%) and irregular morphology. Fibroblasts in contraction-protected substitutes maintained an elongated, spindle-shaped morphology without pathological myofibroblast differentiation, as indicated by the absence of
- smooth muscle actin expression. Furthermore, the epidermal layer in contraction-protected substitutes exhibited improved structural organization. Overall, the ASD provides a user-friendly and effective engineering solution to mitigate contraction in bioengineered skin substitutes, enhancing their stability and reproducibility for preclinical applications. This approach may contribute to improving the reliability of advanced skin grafts for future clinical use.
The following article is
Open access
Nanoengineering conductive soft interfaces for electrogenic cell interactions: a review of materials, fabrication and functionalisation strategies
Bin Guan
et al
2026
Biofabrication
View article
, Nanoengineering conductive soft interfaces for electrogenic cell interactions: a review of materials, fabrication and functionalisation strategies
PDF
, Nanoengineering conductive soft interfaces for electrogenic cell interactions: a review of materials, fabrication and functionalisation strategies
Conductive soft materials are emerging as critical platforms for interfacing with electrogenic cells, such as neurons and cardiomyocytes. Unlike rigid metal electrodes, these materials offer tuneable conductivity for reliable electrical communication, tissue-like softness for mechanical compliance, and chemical or bioactive functionalities for effective integration with biological systems. However, achieving an optimal balance between conductivity, mechanical properties, and biocompatibility remains a significant challenge that is strongly dependent on the fabrication pathway selected. The array of advanced biofabrication methodologies continues to expand rapidly, enabling "top down" approaches that start with bulk materials or "bottom up" approaches that enable more precise formation of structures from molecular building blocks. To equip researchers with a practical toolkit for selecting application-specific materials and designing effective bio-interfaces in areas such as neuroengineering and cardiac modelling, here we provide a comprehensive review of fabrication and functionalisation strategies for these materials. We first introduce some key classes of conductive soft materials, highlighting their unique properties when interacting with electrogenic cells. Fabrication techniques, including spin-coating, electrospinning, moulding, lithography, and 3D printing, are then examined, with a focus on identifying their strengths and limitations in the context of specific bioelectronic applications. Finally, strategies for tailoring post-fabrication surface chemistry to enhance cell interaction and growth are discussed. In the final section, emerging opportunities and future directions for conductive soft interfaces are highlighted.
The following article is
Open access
Engineering cancer avatars with microfluidics, biofabrication and biosensors
Ana Sofia Martins
et al
2026
Biofabrication
View article
, Engineering cancer avatars with microfluidics, biofabrication and biosensors
PDF
, Engineering cancer avatars with microfluidics, biofabrication and biosensors
Microfluidics has revolutionized cancer research by transforming how we study, diagnose, and test treatments, providing valuable insights into disease mechanisms and therapeutic responses. Through miniaturization, automation, and parallelization, microfluidic devices have standardized analytical assays and enhanced the accuracy and reliability of diagnostic and screening procedures, attracting the interest of pharmaceutical industry, laboratories, and clinicians. The use of advanced biofabrication techniques and biomaterials has further enabled the creation of sophisticated microphysiological devices integrating biomimetic tissue-like structures, closely mimicking the cellular and structural complexity of the native tumor microenvironment. This advanced generation of microfluidic platforms surpass conventional approaches that rely on synthetic, rigid, and planar materials, providing a more realistic representation of cancer biology. Moreover, the incorporation of miniaturized biosensors enabling real-time, multiplex, and precise monitoring of biological processes and biomarker presence overcomes the limitations of traditional screening methods, generating high-resolution data that can directly inform clinical decision-making when translated into practice. Herein, we describe how the convergence of microfluidics, biofabrication, and biosensor technologies is shaping a new paradigm in cancer research, driving advancements in disease modeling, drug screening, and diagnosis. While challenges remain for widespread clinical adoption, this integrated approach holds immense potential to transform cancer management and improve patient outcome.
The following article is
Open access
Integrating traction force microscopy and finite element analysis to assess hiPSC-CM mechanics on micropatterned substrates
Shayan Jannati
et al
2026
Biofabrication
18
025029
View article
, Integrating traction force microscopy and finite element analysis to assess hiPSC-CM mechanics on micropatterned substrates
PDF
, Integrating traction force microscopy and finite element analysis to assess hiPSC-CM mechanics on micropatterned substrates
Traction force microscopy (TFM) is a well-established technique for quantifying the forces that cells exert on their underlying substrates. However, its application to dynamically beating cells-such as cardiomyocytes (CMs) cultured as two-dimensional monolayers-remains challenging, particularly when the cells are grown on non-planar or micropatterned substrates. In this study, we present an integrated TFM–finite element analysis (FEA) workflow integrated with dual-plane fluorescence imaging. This approach enables quantification of the stress and strain energy density (SED) fields generated by human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived CMs (hiPSC-CMs) cultured on micropatterned polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) substrates with tunable stiffness. Substrate stiffness was tuned to mimic both healthy (∼5 kPa) and fibrotic (∼50 kPa) cardiac microenvironments. Displacement fields captured from the top and bottom planes of the micropatterns were interpolated and mapped onto a finite element model to reconstruct local stress and strain energy distributions. Results showed that substrate stiffness and micropatterning synergistically modulate cardiomyocyte contractility. Micropatterning promoted cellular alignment and directional force transmission, resulting in anisotropic stress fields and increased SED, particularly on stiff substrates. Moreover, proteomic data revealed a shift from oxidative phosphorylation to glycolysis in cells cultured on stiff micropatterned substrates, consistent with pathological cardiac remodeling. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that soft micropatterned substrates recreate a physiological cardiac microenvironment that supports oxidative metabolism and efficient contractility, whereas stiff micropatterned substrates mimic cardiac remodeling characterized by enhanced stress generation and glycolytic metabolism. The proposed TFM–FEA platform provides a robust and quantitative framework for studying cardiomyocyte mechanobiology under physiologically relevant conditions and can be readily applied to cardiac tissue engineering, disease modeling, and drug screening.
The following article is
Open access
Light-activated cartilage decellularised extracellular matrix hydrogels for engineering chondrogenic microenvironments with localised oxygen control
Lin Li
et al
2026
Biofabrication
View article
, Light-activated cartilage decellularised extracellular matrix hydrogels for engineering chondrogenic microenvironments with localised oxygen control
PDF
, Light-activated cartilage decellularised extracellular matrix hydrogels for engineering chondrogenic microenvironments with localised oxygen control
Cartilage tissue engineering requires biomaterials that can effectively maintain the tissue-specific functions of chondrocytes to enable the restoration of cartilage structure and function. Decellularised extracellular matrix (dECM)-derived hydrogels serve as tissue-specific biomaterials capable of preserving native biochemical cues and maintaining physiological chondrocyte phenotype in three-dimensional culture. However, their sol-gel transition relies heavily on collagen fibrillogenesis, a slow and poorly controllable process that limits mechanical tunability and suffers from inter-batch variability. Therefore, further efforts are required to functionalise cartilage dECM to achieve reproducible and controllable physicochemical properties. Here, we present a light-activated cartilage dECM hydrogel system based on ruthenium/sodium persulfate (Ru/SPS)-mediated dityrosine crosslinking, enabling rapid hydrogel formation under visible light irradiation while providing tunable mechanical properties and improved biological functionality. Comparison of the decellularisation protocols indicated that Triton X-100 combined with ammonium hydroxide efficiently eliminated residual DNA while preserving a substantial proportion of the native cartilage proteome. Pepsin-solubilised cartilage dECM hydrogels formed via dityrosine-based photo-crosslinking exhibited rapid gelation behaviour and superior mechanical characteristics compared to conventional thermally gelled dECM. The photo-crosslinked dECM hydrogels were cytocompatible, supported human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs), and favoured cartilage-specific phenotypes, as demonstrated by chondrogenic genes upregulation, including COL2A1 and ACAN, compared with gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) hydrogels. Importantly, this photo-crosslinking strategy overcomes the incompatibility between oxygen-sensitive redox-based photochemistry and hypoxic culture conditions, enabling the incorporation of oxygen-scavenging microcapsules to establish low-oxygen microenvironments. Under hypoxia, the cartilage dECM hydrogels promoted a more articular-like phenotype in hBMSC-derived chondrocytes, with transcriptomic features associated with TGF-β/SMAD2/3 and IGF-1/2–IGF-1R signalling. Collectively, these findings establish photo-crosslinked cartilage dECM hydrogels as a biomaterial platform with tunable mechanical properties and favourable biological functionality for cartilage tissue bioengineering and biomimetic in vitro cartilage models.
The following article is
Open access
Bioproduction, bioprotection, and biocontainment in multi-kingdom microbial systems with 3D spatial control
LeAnn Le
et al
2026
Biofabrication
18
025028
View article
, Bioproduction, bioprotection, and biocontainment in multi-kingdom microbial systems with 3D spatial control
PDF
, Bioproduction, bioprotection, and biocontainment in multi-kingdom microbial systems with 3D spatial control
Engineered living materials (ELMs) are a class of hybrid materials that include engineered microbes encapsulated by a polymer matrix. The biotic and abiotic components define the ELMs design space and can be altered to improve performance and function. While current synthetic materials in the field display robust biocompatibility with both native and engineered living systems, we have a limited understanding of how to leverage three-dimensional (3D) form factors to spatially organize and control microbial dynamics within the material. Motivated by this knowledge gap, we employed extrusion-based 3D printing to fabricate multi-kingdom hydrogel constructs for the encapsulation of both single and multi-kingdom microbial systems. Core–shell cubic constructs enabled the spatial organization of a constitutive multi-kingdom system of levodopa (L-DOPA)-producing
E. coli
and betaxanthins (BXN)-producing
S. cerevisiae
. This spatial organization in 3D materials can introduce precise control over bioproduction, bioprotection, and biocontainment features that are critical to the efficacy of current ELMs. The relative spatial organization of the organisms, as well as the surface area-to-volume ratio were investigated to determine how these design elements impact microbial behavior (metabolite production, growth, expression, and cell distribution) over time. We demonstrated that F127-bis-urethane methacrylate (F127-BUM) core–shell geometries enable the hierarchical 3D printing of multi-kingdom constructs, offering customizable control over bioproduction, bioprotection, and biocontainment. With the optimization of these core–shell structures for continuous bioproduction, these ELMs could be deployed as compact and sustainable bioreactors in remote environments.
The following article is
Open access
A scale-down mini-bioreactor for the acceleration of data-driven bioprocess optimisation in cell therapy
Giuseppe A Asaro
et al
2026
Biofabrication
18
025027
View article
, A scale-down mini-bioreactor for the acceleration of data-driven bioprocess optimisation in cell therapy
PDF
, A scale-down mini-bioreactor for the acceleration of data-driven bioprocess optimisation in cell therapy
Cell therapies have demonstrated great potential for treating a broad range of diseases where conventional treatments have failed. However, long development times and sub-optimal processing conditions often hinder their clinical translation. To efficiently develop optimal bioprocesses, a large number of experiments are required, making the screening process lengthy, costly, and resource-intensive. To address these challenges, we present a modular and 3D-printed scaled-down mini-bioreactor that enables parallelization of stirred cell cultures. In addition, the bioreactor system is coupled to real-time monitoring of critical parameters within the cell culture environment, offering the ability to generate multiple time-series data required for artificial intelligence-driven bioprocess development. In this study, a sequential screening design was employed, enabling the efficient evaluation of different combinations of bioprocess parameters (initial cell inoculum, cell-to-microcarriers surface area ratio, and rotation speed). This strategy facilitated rapid, cost-effective, and efficient convergence toward the optimal process conditions. Furthermore, the integrated sensor system demonstrated the feasibility of implementing a soft-sensing framework using metabolic indicators (dissolved oxygen, pH, glucose, and lactate) to non-invasively and non-destructively estimate cell number and gain insights into culture dynamics. Following dynamic expansion in the mini-bioreactor, several analyses were performed to confirm and assess the stemness and multipotency of the cells, which successfully underwent osteogenic, chondrogenic, and adipogenic differentiation.
More Open Access articles
Effect of bioink properties on printability and cell viability for 3D bioplotting of embryonic stem cells
Liliang Ouyang
et al
2016
Biofabrication
035020
View article
, Effect of bioink properties on printability and cell viability for 3D bioplotting of embryonic stem cells
PDF
, Effect of bioink properties on printability and cell viability for 3D bioplotting of embryonic stem cells
3D cell printing is an emerging technology for fabricating complex cell-laden constructs with precise and pre-designed geometry, structure and composition to overcome the limitations of 2D cell culture and conventional tissue engineering scaffold technology. This technology enables spatial manipulation of cells and biomaterials, also referred to as ‘bioink’, and thus allows study of cellular interactions in a 3D microenvironment and/or in the formation of functional tissues and organs. Recently, many efforts have been made to develop new bioinks and to apply more cell sources for better biocompatibility and biofunctionality. However, the influences of printing parameters on the shape fidelity of 3D constructs as well as on cell viability after the cell printing process have been poorly characterized. Furthermore, parameter optimization based on a specific cell type might not be suitable for other types of cells, especially cells with high sensibility. In this study, we systematically studied the influence of bioink properties and printing parameters on bioink printability and embryonic stem cell (ESC) viability in the process of extrusion-based cell printing, also known as bioplotting. A novel method was established to determine suitable conditions for bioplotting ESCs to achieve both good printability and high cell viability. The rheological properties of gelatin/alginate bioinks were evaluated to determine the gelation properties under different bioink compositions, printing temperatures and holding times. The bioink printability was characterized by a newly developed semi-quantitative method. The results demonstrated that bioinks with longer gelation times would result in poorer printability. The live/dead assay showed that ESC viability increased with higher printing temperatures and lower gelatin concentrations. Furthermore, an exponential relationship was obtained between ESC viability and induced shear stress. By defining the proper printability and acceptable viability ranges, a combined parameters region was obtained. This study provides guidance for parameter optimization and the fine-tuning of 3D cell printing processes regarding both bioink printability and cell viability after bioplotting, especially for easily damaged cells, like ESCs.
The following article is
Open access
Proposal to assess printability of bioinks for extrusion-based bioprinting and evaluation of rheological properties governing bioprintability
Naomi Paxton
et al
2017
Biofabrication
044107
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, Proposal to assess printability of bioinks for extrusion-based bioprinting and evaluation of rheological properties governing bioprintability
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, Proposal to assess printability of bioinks for extrusion-based bioprinting and evaluation of rheological properties governing bioprintability
The development and formulation of printable inks for extrusion-based 3D bioprinting has been a major challenge in the field of biofabrication. Inks, often polymer solutions with the addition of crosslinking to form hydrogels, must not only display adequate mechanical properties for the chosen application but also show high biocompatibility as well as printability. Here we describe a reproducible two-step method for the assessment of the printability of inks for bioprinting, focussing firstly on screening ink formulations to assess fibre formation and the ability to form 3D constructs before presenting a method for the rheological evaluation of inks to characterise the yield point, shear thinning and recovery behaviour. In conjunction, a mathematical model was formulated to provide a theoretical understanding of the pressure-driven, shear thinning extrusion of inks through needles in a bioprinter. The assessment methods were trialled with a commercially available crème, poloxamer 407, alginate-based inks and an alginate-gelatine composite material. Yield stress was investigated by applying a stress ramp to a number of inks, which demonstrated the necessity of high yield for printable materials. The shear thinning behaviour of the inks was then characterised by quantifying the degree of shear thinning and using the mathematical model to predict the window of printer operating parameters in which the materials could be printed. Furthermore, the model predicted high shear conditions and high residence times for cells at the walls of the needle and effects on cytocompatibility at different printing conditions. Finally, the ability of the materials to recover to their original viscosity after extrusion was examined using rotational recovery rheological measurements. Taken together, these assessment techniques revealed significant insights into the requirements for printable inks and shear conditions present during the extrusion process and allow the rapid and reproducible characterisation of a wide variety of inks for bioprinting.
The following article is
Open access
A definition of bioinks and their distinction from biomaterial inks
J Groll
et al
2019
Biofabrication
11
013001
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, A definition of bioinks and their distinction from biomaterial inks
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, A definition of bioinks and their distinction from biomaterial inks
Biofabrication aims to fabricate biologically functional products through bioprinting or bioassembly (Groll
et al
2016
Biofabrication
013001). In biofabrication processes, cells are positioned at defined coordinates in three-dimensional space using automated and computer controlled techniques (Moroni
et al
2018
Trends Biotechnol.
36
384–402), usually with the aid of biomaterials that are either (i) directly processed with the cells as suspensions/dispersions, (ii) deposited simultaneously in a separate printing process, or (iii) used as a transient support material. Materials that are suited for biofabrication are often referred to as bioinks and have become an important area of research within the field. In view of this special issue on bioinks, we aim herein to briefly summarize the historic evolution of this term within the field of biofabrication. Furthermore, we propose a simple but general definition of bioinks, and clarify its distinction from biomaterial inks.
Assessment methodologies for extrusion-based bioink printability
Gregory Gillispie
et al
2020
Biofabrication
12
022003
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, Assessment methodologies for extrusion-based bioink printability
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, Assessment methodologies for extrusion-based bioink printability
Extrusion-based bioprinting is one of the leading manufacturing techniques for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Its primary limitation is the lack of materials, known as bioinks, which are suitable for the bioprinting process. The degree to which a bioink is suitable for bioprinting has been described as its ‘printability.’ However, a lack of clarity surrounding the methodologies used to evaluate a bioink’s printability, as well as the usage of the term itself, have hindered the field. This article presents a review of measures used to assess the printability of extrusion-based bioinks in an attempt to assist researchers during the bioink development process. Many different aspects of printability exist and many different measurements have been proposed as a consequence. Researchers often do not evaluate a new bioink’s printability at all, while others simply do so qualitatively. Several quantitative measures have been presented for the extrudability, shape fidelity, and printing accuracy of bioinks. Different measures have been developed even within these aspects, each testing the bioink in a slightly different way. Additionally, other relevant measures which had little or no examples of quantifiable methods are also to be considered. Looking forward, further work is needed to improve upon current assessment methodologies, to move towards a more comprehensive view of printability, and to standardize these printability measurements between researchers. Better assessment techniques will naturally lead to a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms which affect printability and better comparisons between bioinks. This in turn will help improve upon the bioink development process and the bioinks available for use in bioprinting.
The following article is
Open access
Bioink properties before, during and after 3D bioprinting
Katja Hölzl
et al
2016
Biofabrication
032002
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, Bioink properties before, during and after 3D bioprinting
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, Bioink properties before, during and after 3D bioprinting
Bioprinting is a process based on additive manufacturing from materials containing living cells. These materials, often referred to as bioink, are based on cytocompatible hydrogel precursor formulations, which gel in a manner compatible with different bioprinting approaches. The bioink properties before, during and after gelation are essential for its printability, comprising such features as achievable structural resolution, shape fidelity and cell survival. However, it is the final properties of the matured bioprinted tissue construct that are crucial for the end application. During tissue formation these properties are influenced by the amount of cells present in the construct, their proliferation, migration and interaction with the material. A calibrated computational framework is able to predict the tissue development and maturation and to optimize the bioprinting input parameters such as the starting material, the initial cell loading and the construct geometry. In this contribution relevant bioink properties are reviewed and discussed on the example of most popular bioprinting approaches. The effect of cells on hydrogel processing and vice versa is highlighted. Furthermore, numerical approaches were reviewed and implemented for depicting the cellular mechanics within the hydrogel as well as for prediction of mechanical properties to achieve the desired hydrogel construct considering cell density, distribution and material–cell interaction.
Assessing bioink shape fidelity to aid material development in 3D bioprinting
A Ribeiro
et al
2018
Biofabrication
10
014102
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, Assessing bioink shape fidelity to aid material development in 3D bioprinting
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, Assessing bioink shape fidelity to aid material development in 3D bioprinting
During extrusion-based bioprinting, the deposited bioink filaments are subjected to deformations, such as collapse of overhanging filaments, which compromises the ability to stack several layers of bioink, and fusion between adjacent filaments, which compromises the resolution and maintenance of a desired pore structure. When developing new bioinks, approaches to assess their shape fidelity after printing would be beneficial to evaluate the degree of deformation of the deposited filament and to estimate how similar the final printed construct would be to the design. However, shape fidelity has been prevalently assessed qualitatively through visual inspection after printing, hampering the direct comparison of the printability of different bioinks. In this technical note, we propose a quantitative evaluation for shape fidelity of bioinks based on testing the filament collapse on overhanging structures and the filament fusion of parallel printed strands. Both tests were applied on a hydrogel platform based on poloxamer 407 and poly(ethylene glycol) blends, providing a library of hydrogels with different yield stresses. The presented approach is an easy way to assess bioink shape fidelity, applicable to any filament-based bioprinting system and able to quantitatively evaluate this aspect of printability, based on the degree of deformation of the printed filament. In addition, we built a simple theoretical model that relates filament collapse with bioink yield stress. The results of both shape fidelity tests underline the role of yield stress as one of the parameters influencing the printability of a bioink. The presented quantitative evaluation will allow for reproducible comparisons between different bioink platforms.
Optimization of gelatin–alginate composite bioink printability using rheological parameters: a systematic approach
Teng Gao
et al
2018
Biofabrication
10
034106
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, Optimization of gelatin–alginate composite bioink printability using rheological parameters: a systematic approach
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, Optimization of gelatin–alginate composite bioink printability using rheological parameters: a systematic approach
Three-dimensional bioprinting has emerged as a promising technique in tissue engineering applications through the precise deposition of cells and biomaterials in a layer-by-layer fashion. However, the limited availability of hydrogel bioinks is frequently cited as a major issue for the advancement of cell-based extrusion bioprinting technologies. It is well known that highly viscous materials maintain their structure better, but also have decreased cell viability due to the higher forces which are required for extrusion. However, little is known about the effect of the two distinct components of dynamic modulus of viscoelastic materials, storage modulus (
′) and loss modulus (
″), on the printability of hydrogel-based bioinks. Additionally, ‘printability’ has been poorly defined in the literature, mostly consisting of gross qualitative measures which do not allow for direct comparison of bioinks. This study developed a framework for evaluating printability and investigated the effect of dynamic modulus, including storage modulus (
′), loss modulus (
″), and loss tangent (
″/
′) on the printing outcome. Gelatin and alginate as model hydrogels were mixed at various concentrations to obtain hydrogel formulations with a wide range of storage and loss moduli. These formulations were then evaluated for the quantitatively defined values of extrudability, extrusion uniformity, and structural integrity. For extrudability, increasing either the loss or storage modulus increased the pressure required to extrude the bioink. A mathematical model relating the
′ and
″ to the required extrusion pressure was derived based on the data. A lower loss tangent was correlated with increased structural integrity while a higher loss tangent correlated with increased extrusion uniformity. Gelatin–alginate composite hydrogels with a loss tangent in the range of 0.25–0.45 exhibited an excellent compromise between structural integrity and extrusion uniformity. In addition to the characterization of a common bioink, the methodology introduced in this paper could also be used to evaluate the printability of other bioinks in the future.
Review of alginate-based hydrogel bioprinting for application in tissue engineering
Prasansha Rastogi and Balasubramanian Kandasubramanian 2019
Biofabrication
11
042001
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, Review of alginate-based hydrogel bioprinting for application in tissue engineering
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, Review of alginate-based hydrogel bioprinting for application in tissue engineering
The dawn of 3D printing in medicine has given the field the hope of vitality in many patients fighting a multitude of diseases. Also entitled bioprinting, this appertains to its sequential printing of precursor ink, embodying cells and polymer/composite in a predetermined trajectory. The precursor ink, in addition to cells, is predominantly constituted of hydrogels due to its biodegradability and ability to mimic the body’s anatomy and mechanical features, e.g. bones, etc. This review paper is devoted to explicating the bioprinting (3D/4D) of alginate hydrogels, which are extracts from brown algae, through extrusion additive manufacturing. Alginates are salt derivatives of alginic acid and constitute long chains of polysaccharides, which provides pliability and gelling adeptness to their structure. Alginate hydrogel (employed for extrusion) can be pristine or composite relying on the requisite properties (target application controlled or
in vivo
environment), e.g. alginate-natural (gelatin/agarose/collagen/hyaluronic acid/etc) and alginate-synthetic (polyethylene glycol (PEG)/pluronic F-127/etc). Extrusion additive manufacturing of alginate is preponderate among others with its uncomplicated processing, material efficiency (cut down on wastage), and outspread adaptability for viscosities (0.03–6 * 10
Pa.s), but the procedure is limited by resolution (200
m) in addition to accuracy. However, 3D-fabricated biostructures display rigidness (unvarying with conditions) i.e. lacks a smart response, which is reassured by accounting time feature as a noteworthy accessory to printing, interpreted as 4D bioprinting. This review propounds the specific processing itinerary for alginate (meanwhile traversing across its composites/blends with natural and synthetic consideration) in extrusion along with its pre-/during/post-processing parameters intrinsic to the process. Furthermore, propensity is also presented in its (alginate extrusion processing) application for tissue engineering, i.e. bones, cartilage (joints), brain (neural), ear, heart (cardiac), eyes (corneal), etc, due to a worldwide quandary over accessibility to natural organs for diverse types of diseases. Additionally, the review contemplates recently invented advance printing, i.e. 4D printing for biotic species, with its challenges and future opportunities.
Droplet-based microfluidics in biomedical applications
Leyla Amirifar
et al
2022
Biofabrication
14
022001
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, Droplet-based microfluidics in biomedical applications
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, Droplet-based microfluidics in biomedical applications
Droplet-based microfluidic systems have been employed to manipulate discrete fluid volumes with immiscible phases. Creating the fluid droplets at microscale has led to a paradigm shift in mixing, sorting, encapsulation, sensing, and designing high throughput devices for biomedical applications. Droplet microfluidics has opened many opportunities in microparticle synthesis, molecular detection, diagnostics, drug delivery, and cell biology. In the present review, we first introduce standard methods for droplet generation (i.e. passive and active methods) and discuss the latest examples of emulsification and particle synthesis approaches enabled by microfluidic platforms. Then, the applications of droplet-based microfluidics in different biomedical applications are detailed. Finally, a general overview of the latest trends along with the perspectives and future potentials in the field are provided.
Biofabrication: reappraising the definition of an evolving field
Jürgen Groll
et al
2016
Biofabrication
013001
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, Biofabrication: reappraising the definition of an evolving field
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, Biofabrication: reappraising the definition of an evolving field
Biofabrication is an evolving research field that has recently received significant attention. In particular, the adoption of Biofabrication concepts within the field of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine has grown tremendously, and has been accompanied by a growing inconsistency in terminology. This article aims at clarifying the position of Biofabrication as a research field with a special focus on its relation to and application for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine. Within this context, we propose a refined working definition of Biofabrication, including Bioprinting and Bioassembly as complementary strategies within Biofabrication.
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2009-present
Biofabrication
doi: 10.1088/issn.1758-5090
Online ISSN: 1758-5090
Print ISSN: 1758-5082