Multiscale 3D bioprinting for the recapitulation of lung tissue

Abstract

Lung tissue engineering (LTE) has gained significant attention as a highly promising and innovative strategy to tackle the formidable obstacles posed by lung-related diseases and the lack of compatible donor organs availability. In the realm of groundbreaking advancements in tissue engineering (TE), one particular technology that has emerged as a game-changer is three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting. It distinguishes itself by offering a potent and versatile approach to constructing intricate structures while opening up new horizons for TE and regenerative medicine (RM). This review focuses on the application of multiscale 3D bioprinting techniques in LTE and the reconstitution of lung tissue in vitro. We analyzed the key aspects such as bioink formulations and printing strategies utilized from macroscale 3D bioprinting to micro/nanoscale 3D bioprinting. Additionally, we evaluated the potential of multiscale bioprinting to replicate the complex architecture of the lung, ranging from macrostructures to micro/nanoscale features. We discussed the challenges and future directions in biofabrication approaches for LTE. Furthermore, we highlight the current progress and future perspectives in tissue reconstitution of lung in vitro, considering factors such as cell source, functionalization, and integration of physiological cues. Overall, multiscale 3D bioprinting offers exciting possibilities for the development of functional lung tissues, enabling disease modeling, new drug screening, and personalized regenerative therapies.