Investigation of Cell Aggregation on the Printing Performance in Inkjet-Based Bioprinting of Cell-Laden Bioink

Abstract

During 3D bioprinting, when the gravitational force exceeds the buoyant force, cell sedimentation will be induced, resulting in local cell concentration change and cell aggregation which affect the printing performance. This paper aims at studying and quantifying cell aggregation and its effects on the droplet formation process during inkjet-based bioprinting and cell distribution after inkjet-based bioprinting. The major conclusions of this study are as follows: (1) Cell aggregation is a significant challenge during inkjet-based bioprinting by observing the percentage of individual cells after different printing times. In addition, as polymer concentration increases, the cell aggregation is suppressed. (2) As printing time and cell aggregation increase, the ligament length and droplet velocity generally decrease first and then increase due to the initial increase and subsequent decrease of the viscous effect. (3) As the printing time increases, both the maximum number of cells within one microsphere and the mean cell number have a significant increase, especially for low polymer concentrations such as 0.5% (w/v). In addition, the increased rate is the highest using the lowest polymer concentration of 0.5% (w/v) because of its highest cell sedimentation velocity.

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“…Figure shows the relationship between the ligament length and time under different waveforms. , The results show that the length of the ligament is proportional to the time, and the ligament length increases with the increase of the ejection time. The ligament reaches the longest before it breaks from the printhead.…”

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“…In inkjet-based bioprinting systems, the droplet size and deposition rate are largely dependent on the viscosity and surface tension of the biomaterial . Therefore, this printing method is a test of the physical properties of the bioink itself . Extrusion 3D bioprinting is currently a widely used 3D bioprinting mode .…”

“… 14 Therefore, this printing method is a test of the physical properties of the bioink itself. 15 Extrusion 3D bioprinting is currently a widely used 3D bioprinting mode. 16 Extruded 3D cellular bioprinting systems can be categorized as mechanical or pneumatic systems that continuously extrude cell-containing bioink through nozzle holes.…”