3D Bioprinting Phototunable Hydrogels to Study Fibroblast Activation

Alicia E. Tanneberger; Layla Blair; Duncan Davis-Hall; Chelsea M. Magin

doi:10.3791/65639

Bioimpresión 3D de hidrogeles fotoajustables para estudiar la activación de fibroblastos

JoVE Journal
Bioengineering

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JoVE Journal Bioengineering

3D Bioprinting Phototunable Hydrogels to Study Fibroblast Activation

Bioimpresión 3D de hidrogeles fotoajustables para estudiar la activación de fibroblastos

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07:17 min

June 30, 2023

DOI: 10.3791/65639-v

Alicia E. Tanneberger¹, Layla Blair¹, Duncan Davis-Hall¹, Chelsea M. Magin^1,2,3

¹Department of Bioengineering,University of Colorado Denver | Anschutz Medical Campus, ²Department of Pediatrics,University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, ³Division of Pulmonary Sciences and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine,University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus

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Overview

This article describes the engineering of 3D models of lung tissue using phototunable hydrogels. These models are designed to study extracellular matrix stiffening and fibroblast activation, contributing to the understanding of chronic lung diseases.

Key Study Components

Area of Science

3D bioprinting
Extracellular matrix research
Lung tissue modeling

Background

Chronic lung diseases pose significant health challenges.
Understanding the mechanical properties of lung tissue is crucial for developing treatments.
3D printing techniques can create complex tissue structures.
Hydrogels can mimic the stiffness of both healthy and diseased tissues.

Purpose of Study

To develop a method for 3D bioprinting hydrogels.
To investigate the effects of extracellular matrix stiffness on fibroblast behavior.
To create a platform for studying chronic lung disease mechanisms.

Methods Used

3D bioprinting of phototunable hydrogels.
Use of shear-thinning support baths for cell deposition.
Control of mechanical properties during experiments.
Comparison of cell growth in hydrogels mimicking healthy and diseased lung tissue.

Main Results

Successful 3D printing of hydrogels with tunable stiffness.
Demonstrated fibroblast activation in response to matrix stiffness.
Provided insights into the mechanical properties of lung tissue.
Established a new platform for chronic lung disease research.

Conclusions

The study advances the understanding of lung tissue mechanics.
3D bioprinting can effectively model disease conditions.
Findings may inform future therapeutic strategies for lung diseases.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are phototunable hydrogels?

Phototunable hydrogels are materials that can change their properties in response to light, allowing for precise control over their mechanical characteristics.

How does 3D bioprinting contribute to tissue engineering?

3D bioprinting allows for the creation of complex tissue structures that closely mimic natural tissues, facilitating research and potential therapeutic applications.

What is the significance of extracellular matrix stiffness?

Extracellular matrix stiffness influences cell behavior, including activation and differentiation, which is crucial for understanding tissue health and disease.

What challenges exist in 3D printing soft materials?

One challenge is maintaining the shape and integrity of soft materials during the printing process, which can be addressed using support baths.

How can this research impact chronic lung disease treatments?

By understanding the mechanical properties of lung tissue, researchers can develop better models for studying diseases and testing new treatments.

Este artículo describe cómo bioimprimir hidrogeles fotoajustables en 3D para estudiar el endurecimiento de la matriz extracelular y la activación de fibroblastos.

Diseñamos modelos 3D de tejido pulmonar para ayudar al mundo a respirar mejor. Nuestra misión es utilizar biomateriales 3D y técnicas como la impresión 3D para construir plataformas que nos ayuden a comprender qué está causando las enfermedades pulmonares crónicas y cómo tratar mejor estas afecciones. Un desafío experimental en nuestra investigación es la dificultad de imprimir en 3D materiales blandos en formas complejas.

Depositamos con precisión las células mediante la impresión de nuestra biotinta y el baño de soporte de adelgazamiento de tejidos que ayuda a mantener su forma durante el proceso de impresión. Nuestros biomateriales proporcionan control sobre las propiedades mecánicas de la muestra durante todo el curso del experimento. Esta formulación permite a los investigadores cultivar células en un hidrogel que coincide con la rigidez del tejido pulmonar sano y enfermo.

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