Current Trends on Protein Driven Bioinks for 3D Printing

Abstract

In the last decade, three-dimensional (3D) extrusion bioprinting has been on the top trend for innovative technologies in the field of biomedical engineering. In particular, protein-based bioinks such as collagen, gelatin, silk fibroin, elastic, fibrin and protein complexes based on decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) are receiving increasing attention. This current interest is the result of protein’s tunable properties, biocompatibility, environmentally friendly nature and possibility to provide cells with the adequate cues, mimicking the extracellular matrix’s function. In this review we describe the most relevant stages of the development of a protein-driven bioink. The most popular formulations, molecular weights and extraction methods are covered. The different crosslinking methods used in protein bioinks, the formulation with other polymeric systems or molecules of interest as well as the bioprinting settings are herein highlighted. The cell embedding procedures, the in vitro, in vivo, in situ studies and final applications are also discussed. Finally, we approach the development and optimization of bioinks from a sequential perspective, discussing the relevance of each parameter during the pre-processing, processing, and post-processing stages of technological development. Through this approach the present review expects to provide, in a sequential manner, helpful methodological guidelines for the development of novel bioinks.

Cellular Interaction of Human Skin Cells towards Natural Bioink via 3D-Bioprinting Technologies for Chronic Wound: A Comprehensive Review

“…Fibrinogen is a viable bioink component for skin bioprinting as it is a natural part of the wound healing process. The source of the fibrinogen can be obtained from bovine plasma (65–85% protein, 75% clottable protein) with MW of 63.5 kDa and 56 kDa for α-chain and β-chain, respectively [ 88 ]. The current trend of protein-derived bioinks provides an excellent potential for wound healing treatment.…”

Three-Dimensional Bioprinting of Decellularized Extracellular Matrix-Based Bioinks for Tissue Engineering

“…In another case, beta tri-calcium phosphate [ 125 ] and graphene oxide (GO) [ 126 ] were used to improve the printability of dECM-based bioink. Apparently, dECM compounded with alginate [ 127 , 128 ], GelMA [ 129 , 130 ], and gelatin [ 131 , 132 ], presented good extrudability with improve printability. A schematic diagram of several extrusion printing types of devices is shown in Figure 4 A.…”

Self-assembled silk fibroin hydrogels: from preparation to biomedical applications

“…An ideal bioink consists of ECM-like features supporting cell and tissue growth and appropriate mechanical strength. 174 Since cells require mild environments, processing and crosslinking of bioink during printing should be compatible. Decellularized ECM (dECM), synthetic and natural polymers are commonly used materials for 3D bioprinting.…”