3D bioprinting matrices with controlled pore structure and release function guide in vitro self-organization of sweat gland

Sci Rep. 2016 Oct 3:6:34410. doi: 10.1038/srep34410.

Abstract

3D bioprinting matrices are novel platforms for tissue regeneration. Tissue self-organization is a critical process during regeneration that implies the features of organogenesis. However, it is not clear from the current evidences whether 3D printed construct plays a role in guiding tissue self-organization in vitro. Based on our previous study, we bioprinted a 3D matrix as the restrictive niche for direct sweat gland differentiation of epidermal progenitors by different pore structure (300-μm or 400-μm nozzle diameters printed) and reported a long-term gradual transition of differentiated cells into glandular morphogenesis occurs within the 3D construct in vitro. At the initial 14-day culture, an accelerated cell differentiation was achieved with inductive cues released along with gelatin reduction. After protein release completed, the 3D construct guide the self-organized formation of sweat gland tissues, which is similar to that of the natural developmental process. However, glandular morphogenesis was only observed in 300-μm-printed constructs. In the absence of 3D architectural support, glandular morphogenesis was not occurred. This striking finding made us to identify a previously unknown role of the 3D-printed structure in glandular tissue regeneration, and this self-organizing strategy can be applied to forming other tissues in vitro.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Bioprinting*
  • Cell Differentiation*
  • Epidermal Cells
  • Epidermis / metabolism*
  • Mice
  • Mice, Transgenic
  • Porosity
  • Printing, Three-Dimensional*
  • Stem Cells / cytology
  • Stem Cells / metabolism*
  • Sweat Glands / cytology
  • Sweat Glands / metabolism*
  • Tissue Scaffolds / chemistry*