5. Conclusion
In this study, a new formulation of
A-SA-Gel hydrogel was developed and
tested as a self-standing and vascular supportive biomaterial suitable
for 3D printing. The experimental conditions necessary for
extrusion-based 3D printing of in-house formulated hydrogel with various
simple to complex structures and shapes were optimized by modulating
system and solution parameters. Importantly, the complex engineered
structure includes a human ear model which is a realistic example of
printability of our in-house formulated hydrogel. The printed hydrogel
scaffolds also supported the cell growth, that is, HUVECs in this case.
The cells were proliferated well on the scaffolding system and extended
to endothelial sprouting and microvascular network formation through the
scaffolds during the course of the cell culture study. In overall, the
in-house formulated new kind of A-SA-Gel hydrogel is a potential
biomaterial that may be considered for 3D printing of tissue or organ
structures.