Bio-Fabrication: Convergence of 3D Bioprinting and Nano-Biomaterials in Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine

Nicola Di Marzio, David Eglin, Tiziano Serra*, Lorenzo Moroni

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journal(Systematic) Review article peer-review

Abstract

3D Bioprinting (3DBP) technologies open many possibilities for the generation of highly complex cellularized constructs. Nano-biomaterials have been largely used in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine (TERM) for different purposes and functions depending on their intrinsic properties and how they have been presented in the biologic environment. Combination of bioprinting and nano-biomaterials paves the way for unexpected opportunities in the biofabrication scenario, by improving critical weakness of these manufacturing processes while enhancing their efficiency by spatially arranging nano-features. 3D organization of cells is fundamental for a successful design and maturation of native tissues. A critical challenge for the production of biological constructs is to support and guide cell growth toward their natural microenvironment, ensuring a harmonious presence of specific biochemical and biophysical cues to direct cell behavior. Also, precise arrays of stimuli need to be designed to induce stem cell differentiation toward specific tissues. Introducing nano-sized bioactive material can direct cell fate, playing a role in the differentiation process and leading to the biofabrication of functional structures. Nano-composite bio-ink can be used to generate cell instructive scaffolds or either directly printed with cells. In addition, the presence of nano-particles within 3D printed constructs can lead to control them through multiple external physical stimuli, representing an additional tool for healthcare applications. Finally, there is an emerging interest to create biological constructs having active properties, such as sensing, motion or shape modification. In this review, we highlight how introducing nano-biomaterials in bioprinting approaches leads to promising strategies for tissue regeneration.

Original languageEnglish
Article number326
Number of pages11
JournalFrontiers in bioengineering and biotechnology
Volume8
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 16 Apr 2020

Keywords

  • biofabrication
  • tissue engineering
  • bioprinting
  • nano-technology
  • regenerative medicine
  • CARBON NANOTUBES
  • PIEZOELECTRIC SCAFFOLDS
  • CELL-ADHESION
  • NANOPARTICLES
  • DIFFERENTIATION
  • HYDROGEL
  • FUNCTIONALIZATION

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