Patterning of tissue spheroids biofabricated from human fibroblasts on the surface of electrospun polyurethane matrix using 3D bioprinter

Abstract

Organ printing is a computer-aided additive biofabrication of functional three-dimensional human tissue and organ constructs according to digital model using the tissue spheroids as building blocks. The fundamental biological principle of organ printing technology is a phenomenon of tissue fusion. Closely placed tissue spheroids undergo tissue fusion driven by surface tension forces. In order to ensure tissue fusion in the course of post-printing, tissue spheroids must be placed and maintained close to each other. We report here that tissue spheroids biofabricated from primary human fibroblasts could be placed and maintained on the surface of biocompatible electrospun polyurethane matrix using 3D bioprinter according to desirable pattern. The patterned tissue spheroids attach to polyurethane matrix during several hours and became completely spread during several days. Tissue constructions biofabricated by spreading of patterned tissue spheroids on the biocompatible electrospun polyurethane matrix is a novel technological platform for 3D bioprinting of human tissue and organs.