The project delineated six core research objectives: a) design, generate and characterize patterned surfaces for target endothelial cell behavior b) design and develop biomaterial for cell-laden 3D bioprinting, c) design and produce 3D constructs and incorporate those patterned surfaces d) study cell-material interactions, e) utilize perfusion of medium through the lumen of construct and f) study CLVG properties exploring its potential implications as potential vascular grafts.
Firstly unique approaches that combine the hierarchical topography with nano-/micro-patterned cues that guide endothelial cell growth, enhance EC adhesion and migration was developed. Remarkably, patterned tubes were achieved by a combination of nanoimprint and soft lithography, which is a novel approach.
The production of 3D constructs mimicking big vessels, unique approaches that combine the highly repetitive 3D bioprinting with molding technique, together with development of a bioink that resembles mechanophysical properties of extracellular matrix, was successfully achieved.
Characterization of developed bioink and bioprinted constructs, the collaborative synergy between the Fellow, Supervisor, and collaborators from University College London and University of Valladolid, coupled with access to the NBMC AMU infrastructure, has been pivotal in the successful realization of the grant.
Obtained iPSC-CF, SMCs and iPSC-EC were successfully incorporated within 3D constructs. The overall results demonstrate high cell viability and growth of cells within the volume of the bioprint, proving the potential of the designed bioink for use in tissue engineering. No detachment of iPSC-ECs from the lumen is observed, confirming the hypothesis that the novel bioink's unique combination of designed material properties and groove pattern topographical cues protects cells from high flow rates. That data confirm the proper adjustment of the bioink in 3D bioprinting process, the novel technology of micro/nanopatterning, 3D bioprinting+molding and its potential utilization in vascular tissue engineering
This novel approach has the capacity to establish platforms for drug testing and to generate vascular grafts tailored for pediatric use, opening new prospects of personalized medicine.
During the MSCA project, the Fellow participated in scientific conferences presenting MSCA-IF results as well as many outreach and dissemination activities aimed at different target audiences, including researchers, students and school kids. Furthermore, the Fellow participated in several MSCA-focused lectures to share her experience, promote MSCA-IF in broad audience, and encourage other researchers to apply for the fellowships.
