Development of a bioink for 3D bioprinting of Hymeniacidon perlevis sponge tissue

Details

Supervisors

Rees, Jean-François ; Courteille, Marine

Faculty

Faculté des bioingénieurs

Degree label

Master [120] : bioingénieur en chimie et bioindustries, à finalité spécialisée

Abstract

The present study is an integral part of a broader research project dedicated to advancing 3D bioprinting technologies by focusing on the bioprinting of sea sponges. The precise objective of this thesis is to formulate a bioink adapted for the 3D bioprinting process of the Hymenia perlevis sponge. The bioink must support cell adhesion and viability without causing harm to the cells. It should possess the necessary properties for precise bioprinting and maintain the desired shape and structure after printing. To identify the ideal bioink, we conducted 3D cell culture experiments using different hydrogels. Cell cultures were established in various hydrogels, and cell density was measured over a specific time period. The results were compared between the hydrogels and traditional 2D cell culture as a control. Once a hydrogel was identified that promoted cell proliferation and viability, it underwent further testing to assess its suitability for 3D bioprinting. Subsequently, the selected hydrogel, along with sponge cells, was used as the bioink for 3D bioprinting experiments. Among the tested hydrogels, Ultra-Low temperature agarose exhibited the highest cell proliferation. However, it failed to meet the required properties for 3D bioprinting, as it lacked sufficient stiffness and shape retention after printing. Nevertheless, it was used to evaluate cell viability post-bioprinting in the ULTA bioink. The cultured printed results demonstrated evidence of cell aggregation and primmorph formation, indicating the viability of the cells and their potential to form tissue. While certain properties of the developed bioink still require improvement, it serves as a solid foundation for further research. Our next steps involve combining the current matrix with other matrices to modify its printability properties and achieve better printing results.