tissue engineering/bioprinting

how can 3D structures be created using bioink/bioprinting?

layer-by-layer printing and construction allows for different differentiated layers of tissue to be created then combined

scaffold-based tissue engineering

uses a temporary structure that imitates natural body architecture as a template for new tissue growth, mimicking the ECM.

decelluralized tissue

tissue which has had its cells removed, leaving only the ECM; ECM can then be used as a natural scaffold for tissue engineering

recelluralization

the process of returning cells to a decelluralized tissue to create a new functional organ

types of 3D scaffold-based engineering

1. pre-fabricated 3D scaffold: most common type of scaffolding; artificial structures made out of biodegradable polymers that allow cell infiltration

2. decelluralized tissue: ECM serves as native scaffolding

3. mold: cell & gel are poured into a mold to create structure

other methods of tissue engineering

1. bioprinting: cells with matrix are printed one by one

2. fiber-based: cell and hydrogel are formed into fibers

3. cell-sheet-based: cell sheets are harvested from culture dishes and stacked to mimic 3D tissue.

reseeding

the process of introducing cells into a scaffold