The search for suitable 3D scaffolds, mimicking the natural extracellular matrix (ECM) is one of the most important task in the field of tissue engineering. Various hydrogels have recently been developed, however the adaptation of materials properties and geometry remains a challenge. Layer by layer printing enables the production of relatively free design of scaffolds regarding their 3D structure, combination and the accurate position of different materials, cell types and bioactive substances. A special dosage cartridge used in 3D printer BioScaffolder 3.1 (GeSiM, Germany) allows printing of several functional polymers simultaneously in a one-step process. This is especially crucial for formulating frameworks with desired properties (e.g. roughness, topography, porosity, pore size, the ratio of surface area/volume) that are essential in shaping 3D structures, capable of mimicking the skins native role in cell growth, blood circulation and hence supplying the healing tissues with vital nutrients. The printability of some most promising materials for wound care alginate, carboxymethyl cellulose and different combinations was tested in the sense of obtaining optimal scaffold for further characterization and functionalization.
B.03 Paper at an international scientific conference
COBISS.SI-ID: 20647958Early and late complications connected with wound healing significantly lower the patients` quality of life and present a huge financial burden for healthcare systems around the world. Acute wounds normally heal in three successive phases in a shorter timeframe, while in chronic wounds healing is hindered, mostly in the inflammation phase, by which the healing can be prolonged for several months, even years. Consequently, chronic wounds have a major negative impact on the patients’ wellbeing, while it significantly affects also the quality of life of the patients’ relatives. Treatment of larger wounds requires more complex materials, which can ensure the successful renewal/replacement of damaged tissues. In the field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine a more recent emphasis is on the creation of scaffolds using 3D printing technology. 3D printers can produce complex geometric structures, with a very high resolution and manufacturing repeatability using a wide range of biocompatible polymeric materials. In our research, scaffold was prepared from the currently most promising materials for efficient chronic wound care, exhibiting a proven positive effect on healing; alginate (ALG) and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC). During the search of material with optimal printable properties, we developed the combination of 10 % CMC and 2% ALG, which allowed us to form stabile 3D scaffold. Through the in situ incorporation of human skin derived keratinocytes, another functionality to the new material was provided. Due to Live/Dead assay, no toxic effect of newly developed material on the human keratinocytes was established.
B.03 Paper at an international scientific conference
COBISS.SI-ID: 20885526In the case of major wounds, it is necessary to prepare more complex materials, which can ensure the successful restoration or replacement of damaged/destroyed tissues. As a consequence, in the field of tissue engineering, there has recently been a great deal of emphasis on the design of advanced materials, using 3D printers and the technique of electrospinning. With 3D bioprinter we prepared 3D printed materials for wound care, which are already used in non-woven form in this field and have a proven positive influence on wound healing (alginate, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, nanofibrilated cellulose). With the preparation of the starting material with optimal 3D printing properties, materials with a precisely defined structure (scaffolds) were printed. 3D BioScaffolder enables the production of complex biocompatible geometric models with precise control and reproducibility of production from a wide range of polymeric materials. On so prepared scaffolds, nanofibres were applied. Such nanofibres imitate the morphological structure of the extracellular matrix, thereby accelerating healing of wounds. Electrospun nanofibers with included analgesic drugs diclofenac or lidocaine, was then evaluated in the sense of safety and efficiency (drug release testing by using Franz diffusion cells).
B.03 Paper at an international scientific conference
COBISS.SI-ID: 20808214