A new automated process prints a peptide-based hydrogel scaffold containing uniformly distributed cells. The scaffolds hold their shapes well and successfully facilitate cell growth that lasts for weeks.

“Bioprinting” — 3D printing that incorporates living cells — has the potential to revolutionize tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Scientists have experimented with natural and synthetic “bioinks” to print out scaffolds that hold cells in place as they grow and form a tissue with a specific shape. But there are challenges with cell survival. Natural bioinks, such as gelatin and collagen, need to be treated with chemicals or ultraviolet light to hold their shape, which affects the cell viability. The synthetic polymer hydrogels tested to date also require the use of harsh chemicals and conditions that threaten cell survival.

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Image: The newly developed bioprinting technique has the potential to revolutionize tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
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