BROCHURES / DOCUMENTATION
APPLICATION NOTES
SCIENTIFIC PUBLICATIONS
You are researching: Drug Delivery
Cancer Cell Lines
Cell Type
Tissue and Organ Biofabrication
Skin Tissue Engineering
Drug Delivery
Biological Molecules
Solid Dosage Drugs
Stem Cells
Personalised Pharmaceuticals
Inducend Pluripotent Stem Cells (IPSCs)
Drug Discovery
All Groups
- Printing Technology
- Biomaterial
- Non-cellularized gels/pastes
- poly (ethylene-co -vinyl acetate) (PEVA)
- Poly(itaconate-co-citrate-cooctanediol) (PICO)
- Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAAm)
- Mineral Oil
- poly(octanediol-co-maleic anhydride-co-citrate) (POMaC)
- Poly(Oxazoline)
- Poly(trimethylene carbonate)
- 2-hydroxyethyl) methacrylate (HEMA)
- Zein
- Acrylamide
- Pluronic – Poloxamer
- Polyisobutylene
- Paraffin
- Silicone
- Konjac Gum
- Polyphenylene Oxide
- Ionic Liquids
- Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)
- Gelatin-Sucrose Matrix
- Salt-based
- Chlorella Microalgae
- Acrylates
- Poly(Vinyl Formal)
- 2-hydroxyethyl-methacrylate (HEMA)
- Phenylacetylene
- Magnetorheological fluid (MR fluid – MRF)
- Salecan
- Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)
- PEDOT
- Jeffamine
- Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA)
- Polyethylene
- SEBS
- Polypropylene Oxide (PPO)
- Carbopol
- Sucrose Acetate
- Epoxy
- Micro/nano-particles
- Biological Molecules
- Bioinks
- Fibrinogen
- Fibrin
- Paeoniflorin
- Fibronectin
- (2-Hydroxypropyl)methacrylamide (HPMA)
- Methacrylated Collagen (CollMA)
- Carrageenan
- Glucosamine
- Chitosan
- Glycerol
- Poly(glycidol)
- Alginate
- Agarose
- Gelatin-Methacryloyl (GelMA)
- methacrylated chondroitin sulfate (CSMA)
- Cellulose
- Novogel
- carboxybetaine acrylamide (CBAA)
- Hyaluronic Acid
- Peptide gel
- Methacrylated Silk Fibroin
- Pantoan Methacrylate
- Polyethylene glycol (PEG) based
- α-Bioink
- Poly(Acrylic Acid)
- Collagen
- Elastin
- Heparin
- sulfobetaine methacrylate (SBMA)
- Gelatin
- Matrigel
- Gellan Gum
- Methacrylated Chitosan
- Methacrylated hyaluronic acid (HAMA)
- Pectin
- Silk Fibroin
- Pyrogallol
- Xanthan Gum
- Ceramics
- Decellularized Extracellular Matrix (dECM)
- Metals
- Solid Dosage Drugs
- Thermoplastics
- Coaxial Extruder
- Non-cellularized gels/pastes
- Bioprinting Technologies
- Bioprinting Applications
- Cell Type
- Melanocytes
- Retinal
- Chondrocytes
- Embrionic Kidney (HEK)
- Corneal Stromal Cells
- Annulus Fibrosus Cells
- Fibroblasts
- β cells
- Astrocytes
- Myoblasts
- Pericytes
- Hepatocytes
- Cancer Cell Lines
- Bacteria
- Epicardial Cells
- Articular cartilage progenitor cells (ACPCs)
- Tenocytes
- Extracellular Vesicles
- Osteoblasts
- Monocytes
- Mesothelial cells
- Nucleus Pulposus Cells
- Epithelial
- Neutrophils
- Adipocytes
- Smooth Muscle Cells
- T cells
- Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells (HUVECs)
- Organoids
- Stem Cells
- Spheroids
- Meniscus Cells
- Synoviocytes
- Keratinocytes
- Skeletal Muscle-Derived Cells (SkMDCs)
- Neurons
- Macrophages
- Human Trabecular Meshwork Cells
- Endothelial
- CardioMyocites
- Institution
- Trinity College
- Novartis
- University of Central Florida
- Hefei University
- Leibniz University Hannover
- Chalmers University of Technology
- Karlsruhe institute of technology
- University of Freiburg
- Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland
- Leipzig University
- AO Research Institute (ARI)
- Shanghai University
- Univerity of Hong Kong
- University of Toronto
- Brown University
- Polish Academy of Sciences
- University of Wurzburg
- Technical University of Dresden
- University of Nantes
- Montreal University
- Shandong Medical University
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC)
- University of Michigan – School of Dentistry
- Myiongji University
- Harbin Institute of Technology
- Technical University of Berlin
- University of Amsterdam
- University of Tel Aviv
- University of Applied Sciences Northwestern Switzerland
- Anhui Polytechnic
- University Children's Hospital Zurich
- Bayreuth University
- Aschaffenburg University
- University of Michigan, Biointerfaces Institute
- Abu Dhabi University
- Jiao Tong University
- University of Aveiro
- Ghent University
- Chiao Tung University
- Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute
- University of Sheffield
- University of Michigan – Biointerfaces Institute
- National University of Singapore
- CIC biomaGUNE
- Kaohsiung Medical University
- DTU – Technical University of Denmark
- University of Taiwan
- Adolphe Merkle Institute Fribourg
- Halle-Wittenberg University
- Baylor College of Medicine
- INM – Leibniz Institute for New Materials
- National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University
- University of Vilnius
- Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW)
- Innotere
- L'Oreal
- Tiangong University
- Xi’an Children’s Hospital
- ETH Zurich
- Hallym University
- Nanjing Medical University
- University of Bordeaux
- Innsbruck University
- DWI – Leibniz Institute
- Nanyang Technological University
- National Institutes of Health (NIH)
- Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering (NIMTE)
- KU Leuven
- Politecnico di Torino
- Utrecht Medical Center (UMC)
- Rizzoli Orthopaedic Institute
- Queen Mary University
- Veterans Administration Medical Center
- University of Manchester
- University of Bucharest
- Royal Free Hospital
- Hong Kong University
- University of Barcelona
- Chinese Academy of Sciences
- ENEA
- University of Nottingham
- University of Geneva
- SINTEF
- Rice University
- Jiangsu University
- Biomaterials & Bioinks
- Application
- Bioelectronics
- Biomaterial Processing
- Tissue Models – Drug Discovery
- Industrial
- Drug Discovery
- In Vitro Models
- Robotics
- Electronics – Robotics – Industrial
- Medical Devices
- Tissue and Organ Biofabrication
- Heart – Cardiac Patches Tissue Engineering
- Adipose Tissue Engineering
- Trachea Tissue Engineering
- Ocular Tissue Engineering
- Intervertebral Disc (IVD) Tissue Engineering
- Muscle Tissue Engineering
- Liver tissue Engineering
- Cartilage Tissue Engineering
- Bone Tissue Engineering
- Dental Tissue Engineering
- Drug Delivery
- Urethra Tissue Engineering
- Skin Tissue Engineering
- Uterus Tissue Engineering
- Nerve – Neural Tissue Engineering
- Meniscus Tissue Engineering
- BioSensors
- Personalised Pharmaceuticals
- Review Paper
AUTHOR
Title
Microfiber-reinforced hydrogels prolong the release of human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles to promote endothelial migration
[Abstract]
Year
2023
Journal/Proceedings
Biomaterials Advances
Reftype
Groups
AbstractExtracellular vesicle (EV)-based approaches for promoting angiogenesis have shown promising results. Yet, further development is needed in vehicles that prolong EV exposure to target organs. Here, we hypothesized that microfiber-reinforced gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) hydrogels could serve as sustained delivery platforms for human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived EV. EV with 50–200 nm size and typical morphology were isolated from hiPSC-conditioned culture media and tested negative for common co-isolated contaminants. hiPSC-EV were then incorporated into GelMA hydrogels with or without a melt electrowritten reinforcing mesh. EV release was found to increase with GelMA concentration, as 12 % (w/v) GelMA hydrogels provided higher release rate and total release over 14 days in vitro, compared to lower hydrogel concentrations. Release profile modelling identified diffusion as a predominant release mechanism based on a Peppas-Sahlin model. To study the effect of reinforcement-dependent hydrogel mechanics on EV release, stress relaxation was assessed. Reinforcement with highly porous microfiber meshes delayed EV release by prolonging hydrogel stress relaxation and reducing the swelling ratio, thus decreasing the initial burst and overall extent of release. After release from photocrosslinked reinforced hydrogels, EV remained internalizable by human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) over 14 days, and increased migration was observed in the first 4 h. EV and RNA cargo stability was investigated at physiological temperature in vitro, showing a sharp decrease in total RNA levels, but a stable level of endothelial migration-associated small noncoding RNAs over 14 days. Our data show that hydrogel formulation and microfiber reinforcement are superimposable approaches to modulate EV release from hydrogels, thus depicting fiber-reinforced GelMA hydrogels as tunable hiPSC-EV vehicles for controlled release systems that promote endothelial cell migration.
AUTHOR
Title
Multi-material 3D printing of programmable and stretchable oromucosal patches for delivery of saquinavir
[Abstract]
Year
2021
Journal/Proceedings
International Journal of Pharmaceutics
Reftype
Groups
AbstractOromucosal patches for drug delivery allow fast onset of action and ability to circumvent hepatic first pass metabolism of drugs. While conventional fabrication methods such as solvent casting or hot melt extrusion are ideal for scalable production of low-cost delivery patches, these methods chiefly allow for simple, homogenous patch designs. As alternative, a multi-material direct-ink-write 3D printing for rapid fabrication of complex oromucosal patches with unique design features was demonstrated in the present study. Specifically, three print-materials: an acidic saquinavir-loaded hydroxypropyl methylcellulose ink, an alkaline effervescent sodium carbonate-loaded ink, and a methyl cellulose backing material were combined in various designs. The CO2 content and pH of the microenvironment were controlled by adjusting the number of alkaline layers in the patch. Additionally, the rigid and brittle patches were converted to compliant and stretchable patches by implementing mesh-like designs. Our results illustrate how 3D printing can be used for rapid design and fabrication of multifunctional or customized oromucosal patches with tailored dosages and changed drug permeation.
AUTHOR
Title
Pore-forming bioinks to enable Spatio-temporally defined gene delivery in bioprinted tissues
[Abstract]
Year
2019
Journal/Proceedings
Journal of Controlled Release
Reftype
Groups
AbstractThe regeneration of complex tissues and organs remains a major clinical challenge. With a view towards bioprinting such tissues, we developed a new class of pore-forming bioink to spatially and temporally control the presentation of therapeutic genes within bioprinted tissues. By blending sacrificial and stable hydrogels, we were able to produce bioinks whose porosity increased with time following printing. When combined with amphipathic peptide-based plasmid DNA delivery, these bioinks supported enhanced non-viral gene transfer to stem cells in vitro. By modulating the porosity of these bioinks, it was possible to direct either rapid and transient (pore-forming bioinks), or slower and more sustained (solid bioinks) transfection of host or transplanted cells in vivo. To demonstrate the utility of these bioinks for the bioprinting of spatially complex tissues, they were next used to zonally position stem cells and plasmids encoding for either osteogenic (BMP2) or chondrogenic (combination of TGF-β3, BMP2 and SOX9) genes within networks of 3D printed thermoplastic fibers to produce mechanically reinforced, gene activated constructs. In vivo, these bioprinted tissues supported the development of a vascularised, bony tissue overlaid by a layer of stable cartilage. When combined with multiple-tool biofabrication strategies, these gene activated bioinks can enable the bioprinting of a wide range of spatially complex tissues.
AUTHOR
Title
3D-printed Mg-substituted hydroxyapatite/ gelatin methacryloyl hydrogels encapsulated with PDA@DOX particles for bone tumor therapy and bone tissue regeneration
Year
2024
Journal/Proceedings
IJB
Reftype
DOI/URL
DOI
Groups
AUTHOR
Year
2024
Journal/Proceedings
Rapid Prototyping Journal
Reftype
AbstractPurpose Additive manufacturing (AM), also known as three-dimensional (3D) printing technology, has been used in the health-care industry for over two decades. It is in high demand in the health-care industry due to its strength to manufacture custom-designed and personalized 3D constructs. Recently, AM technologies are being explored to develop personalized drug delivery systems, such as personalized oral dosages, implants and others due to their potential to design and develop systems with complex geometry and programmed controlled release profile. Furthermore, in 2015, the US Food and Drug Administration approved the first AM medication, Spritam® (Apprecia Pharmaceuticals) which has led to tremendous interest in exploring this technology as a bespoke solution for patient-specific drug delivery systems. The purpose of this study is to provide a comprehensive overview of AM technologies applied to the development of personalized drug delivery systems, including an analysis of the commercial status of AM based drugs and delivery devices. Design/methodology/approach This review paper provides a detailed understanding of how AM technologies are used to develop personalized drug delivery systems. Different AM technologies and how these technologies can be chosen for a specific drug delivery system are discussed. Different types of materials used to manufacture personalized drug delivery systems are also discussed here. Furthermore, recent preclinical and clinical trials are discussed. The challenges and future perceptions of personalized medicine and the clinical use of these systems are also discussed. Findings Substantial works are ongoing to develop personalized medicine using AM technologies. Understanding the regulatory requirements is needed to establish this area as a point-of-care solution for patients. Furthermore, scientists, engineers and regulatory agencies need to work closely to successfully translate the research efforts to clinics. Originality/value This review paper highlights the recent efforts of AM-based technologies in the field of personalized drug delivery systems with an insight into the possible future direction.
AUTHOR
Title
Degradable polycaprolactone/buffer composites as pH regulating carrier materials for drug delivery and 3D printed biomaterials
[Abstract]
Year
2024
Journal/Proceedings
Materialia
Reftype
Groups
AbstractPolymeric materials such as biodegradable polycaprolactone (PCL) have garnered significant attention for their utility in biomedical applications. With its notable low glass transition temperature (Tg), PCL exhibits flexibility at physiological temperatures, rendering it an ideal candidate for drug delivery systems, particularly in fibrous form. This suitability is particularly pronounced when these fibres are designed for placement within periodontal pockets resulting from periodontitis. However, the degradation of PCL yields acidic by-products, potentially impacting adjacent dental structures. To address this, several composites comprising PCL and buffering agents (CaCO3, MgCO3, NaHCO3, Na2HPO4, and TRIS) were processed to scaffolds using fused deposition modelling. For fine mineral powders (MgCO3, Na2HPO4) resulted in an extrudability of up to 20 wt% added to the PCL, whereas otherwise 30 wt% added buffer could be processed without any problems. The primary objective of these composites is to modulate the pH within the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) to prevent demineralization of teeth. It was found, that only MgCO3 added to PCL can keep pH above 7.4 during enzymatic degradation over 28 days. This ensured that the polymer matrix was 100% degraded without lowering the pH value, which might prevent deminarlization of dental hard tissues for it future intended application. This influence can be directly attributed to the solubility of MgCO3, as all other buffer substances are rinsed out of the PCL matrix too quickly (max. 9 days).
AUTHOR
Title
Plant-derived exosomes extracted from Lycium barbarum L. loaded with isoliquiritigenin to promote spinal cord injury repair based on 3D printed bionic scaffold
[Abstract]
Year
2024
Journal/Proceedings
Bioengineering & Translational Medicine
Reftype
DOI/URL
DOI
Groups
AbstractAbstract Plant-derived exosomes (PEs) possess an array of therapeutic properties, including antitumor, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory capabilities. They are also implicated in defensive responses to pathogenic attacks. Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) regeneration represents a global medical challenge, with appropriate research concentration on three pivotal domains: neural regeneration promotion, inflammation inhibition, and innovation and application of regenerative scaffolds. Unfortunately, the utilization of PE in SCI therapy remains unexplored. Herein, we isolated PE from the traditional Chinese medicinal herb, Lycium barbarum L. and discovered their inflammatory inhibition and neuronal differentiation promotion capabilities. Compared with exosomes derived from ectomesenchymal stem cells (EMSCs), PE demonstrated a substantial enhancement in neural differentiation. We encapsulated isoliquiritigenin (ISL)-loaded plant-derived exosomes (ISL@PE) from L. barbarum L. within a 3D-printed bionic scaffold. The intricate construct modulated the inflammatory response following SCI, facilitating the restoration of damaged axons and culminating in ameliorated neurological function. This pioneering investigation proposes a novel potential route for insoluble drug delivery via plant exosomes, as well as SCI repair. The institutional animal care and use committee number is UJS-IACUC-2020121602.
AUTHOR
Title
Regulation of the immune microenvironment by pioglitazone-loaded polylactic glycolic acid nanosphere composite scaffolds to promote vascularization and bone regeneration
[Abstract]
Year
2024
Journal/Proceedings
Journal of Tissue Engineering
Reftype
DOI/URL
DOI
Groups
AbstractOsteogenesis is caused by multiple factors, and the inflammatory response, osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), regeneration of blood vessels, and other factors must be considered in bone tissue engineering. To effectively repair bone defect, it is important to decrease excessive inflammation, enhance the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells into osteoblasts, and stimulate angiogenesis. Herein, nano-attapulgite (ATP), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and gelatin (GEL) scaffolds were produced using 3D printing technology and pioglitazone (PIO)-containing polylactic acid–glycolic acid (PLGA) nanospheres were added. In both in vitro and in vivo studies, material scaffolds with PIO-loaded polylactic acid–glycolic acid nanospheres could reduce the inflammatory response by encouraging macrophage polarization from M1 to M2 and promoting the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs by activating the BMP2/Smad/RUNX2 signal pathway to repair bone defects. The vascularization of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) through the PI3K/AKT/HIF1-/VEGF pathway was also encouraged. In vivo research using PIO-containing PLGA nanospheres revealed massive collagen deposition in skin models. These findings indicate a potentially effective scaffold for bone healing, when PLGA nanospheres—which contain the drug PIO—are combined with ATP/PVA/GEL scaffolds.
AUTHOR
Title
3D-printed TCP-HA scaffolds delivering MicroRNA-302a-3p improve bone regeneration in a mouse calvarial model
[Abstract]
Year
2023
Journal/Proceedings
BDJ Open
Reftype
Limlawan2023
DOI/URL
DOI
Groups
AbstractTo demonstrate hydroxyapatite nanoparticles modified with cationic functional molecules. 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (HA-NPs-APTES) carrying microRNA-302a-3p (miR) in the 3D-printed tricalcium phosphate/Hydroxyapatite (TCP/HA) scaffold can increase healing of the critical-sized bone defect.
AUTHOR
Year
2023
Journal/Proceedings
Reftype
DOI/URL
DOI
AbstractPurpose – Additive manufacturing (AM), also known as three-dimensional (3D) printing technology, has been used in the health-care industry for over two decades. It is in high demand in the health-care industry due to its strength to manufacture custom-designed and personalized 3D constructs. Recently, AM technologies are being explored to develop personalized drug delivery systems, such as personalized oral dosages, implants and others due to their potential to design and develop systems with complex geometry and programmed controlled release profile. Furthermore, in 2015, the US Food and Drug Administration approved the first AM medication, SpritamVR (Apprecia Pharmaceuticals) which has led to tremendous interest in exploring this technology as a bespoke solution for patient-specific drug delivery systems. The purpose of this study is to provide a comprehensive overview of AM technologies applied to the development of personalized drug delivery systems, including an analysis of the commercial status of AM based drugs and delivery devices. Design/methodology/approach – This review paper provides a detailed understanding of how AM technologies are used to develop personalized drug delivery systems. Different AM technologies and how these technologies can be chosen for a specific drug delivery system are discussed. Different types of materials used to manufacture personalized drug delivery systems are also discussed here. Furthermore, recent preclinical and clinical trials are discussed. The challenges and future perceptions of personalized medicine and the clinical use of these systems are also discussed. Findings – Substantial works are ongoing to develop personalized medicine using AM technologies. Understanding the regulatory requirements is needed to establish this area as a point-of-care solution for patients. Furthermore, scientists, engineers and regulatory agencies need to work closely to successfully translate the research efforts to clinics. Originality/value – This review paper highlights the recent efforts of AM-based technologies in the field of personalized drug delivery systems with an insight into the possible future direction.
AUTHOR
Year
2023
Journal/Proceedings
ACS Biomater. Sci. Eng.
Reftype
DOI/URL
DOI
AbstractThe controlled delivery of growth factors (GFs) from tissue engineered constructs represents a promising strategy to improve tissue repair and regeneration. However, despite their established key role in tissue regeneration, the use of GFs is limited by their short half-life in the in vivo environment, their dose-dependent effectiveness, and their space- and time-dependent activity. Promising results have been obtained both in vitro and in vivo in animal models. Nevertheless, the clinical application of tissue engineered constructs releasing GFs is still challenging due to the several limitations and risks associated with their use. 3D printing and bioprinting, by allowing the microprecise spatial deposition of multiple materials and the fabrication of complex geometries with high resolution, offer advanced strategies for an optimal release of GFs from tissue engineered constructs. This review summarizes the strategies that have been employed to include GFs and their delivery system into biomaterials used for 3D printing applications to optimize their controlled release and to improve both the in vitro and in vivo regeneration processes. The approaches adopted to overcome the above-mentioned limitations are presented, showing the potential of the technology of 3D printing to get one step closer to clinical applications.
AUTHOR
Year
2023
Journal/Proceedings
Bioprinting
Reftype
Abstract3D printing first came into existence in the year 1984. Since then, it has found significant use in various fields, including pharmaceutical industries.3D printing is a process of manufacturing products by depositing materials layer by layer. Thus, also called additive manufacturing. Additive manufacturing provides patient-specific formulation, an advantage over conventional drug design methods. 3D printing helps in the designing of complex structures. Since the approval of the first 3D-printed tablet, this field has gained popularity. In this review, various techniques used in 3D printing have been discussed. This article further gives insight into the recent research done on AM technology. There is also some discussion about the formulations made for pediatric patients using AM technology. Different types of drug delivery systems mentioned in this work are oral, vaginal, rectal, oro-mucosal, transdermal, and implant. Further drug testing devices, including 3D-printed organoids and organ-on-chip models, have been discussed. Finally, it gives information about the future direction of this technology.
AUTHOR
Title
Fabrication of 3D Printed, Core-and-Shell Implants as Controlled Release Systems for Local siRNA Delivery
[Abstract]
Year
2023
Journal/Proceedings
Advanced Healthcare Materials
Reftype
DOI/URL
DOI
Groups
AbstractAbstract The development and clinical translation of small interfering RNA (siRNA) therapies remains challenging owing to their poor pharmacokinetics. 3D printing technology presents a great opportunity to fabricate personalized implants for local and sustained delivery of siRNA. Hydrogels can mimic the mechanical properties of tissues, avoiding the problems associated with rigid implants. Herein, a thermoresponsive composite hydrogel suitable for extrusion 3D-printing is formulated to fabricate controlled-release implants loaded with siRNA-Lipofectamine RNAiMAX complexes. A hydrogel matrix mainly composed of uncharged agarose to protect siRNA from decomplexation is selected. Additionally, pluronic F127 and gelatin are added to improve the printability, degradation, and cell adhesion to the implants. To avoid exposing siRNA to thermal stress during the printing process, a core-and-shell design is set up for the implants in which a core of siRNA-complexes loaded-pluronic F127 is printed without heat and enclosed with a shell comprising the thermoresponsive composite hydrogel. The release profile of siRNA-complexes is envisioned to be controlled by varying the printing patterns. The results reveal that the implants sustain siRNA release for one month. The intactness of the released siRNA-complexes is proven until the eighth day. Furthermore, by changing the printing patterns, the release profiles can be tailored.
AUTHOR
Title
Sustained Release of Dexamethasone from 3D-Printed Scaffolds Modulates Macrophage Activation and Enhances Osteogenic Differentiation
[Abstract]
Year
2023
Journal/Proceedings
ACS Appl. Mater. Interfaces
Reftype
DOI/URL
DOI
Groups
AbstractEnhancing osteogenesis via modulating immune cells is emerging as a new approach to address the current challenges in repairing bone defects and fractures. However, much remains unknown about the crosstalk between immune cells and osteolineage cells during bone formation. Moreover, biomaterial scaffold-based approaches to effectively modulate this crosstalk to favor bone healing are also lacking. This study is the first to investigate the interactions between macrophages and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in co-cultures with the sustained release of an anti-inflammatory and pro-osteogenesis drug (dexamethasone) from three-dimensional (3D)-printed scaffolds. We successfully achieved the sustained release of dexamethasone from polycaprolactone (PCL) by adding the excipient-sucrose acetate isobutyrate (SAIB). Dexamethasone was released over 35 days in the 17-163 nM range. The osteogenic differentiation of MSCs was enhanced by M1 macrophages at early time points. The late-stage mineralization was dominated by dexamethasone, with little contribution from the macrophages. Besides confirming BMP-2 whose secretion was promoted by both dexamethasone and M1 macrophages as a soluble mediator for enhanced osteogenesis, IL-6 was found to be a possible new soluble factor that mediated osteogenesis in macrophage-MSC co-cultures. The phenotype switching from M1 to M2 was drastically enhanced by the scaffold-released dexamethasone but only marginally by the co-cultured MSCs. Our results offer new insight into macrophage-MSC crosstalk and demonstrate the potential of using drug-release scaffolds to both modulate inflammation and enhance bone regeneration.
AUTHOR
Title
Water-responsive 4D printing based on self-assembly of hydrophobic protein “Zein” for the control of degradation rate and drug release
[Abstract]
Year
2023
Journal/Proceedings
Bioactive Materials
Reftype
Groups
AbstractFour-dimensional (4D) printing is a promising technology that provides solutions for compelling needs in various fields. Most of the reported 4D printed systems are based on the temporal shape transformation of printed subjects. Induction of temporal heterogenicity in functions in addition to shape may extend the scope of 4D printing. Herein, we report a 4D printing approach using plant protein (zein) gel inspired by the amyloid fibrils formation mechanism. The printing of zein gel in a specialized layered-Carbopol supporting bath with different water concentrations in an ethanol-water mixture modulates hydrophobic and hydrogen bonding that causes temporal changes in functions. The part of the construct printed in a supporting bath with higher water content exhibits higher drug loading, faster drug release and degradation than those printed in the supporting bath with lower water content. Tri-segment conduit and butterfly-shaped construct with two asymmetrical wings are printed using this system to evaluate biomedical function as nerve conduit and drug delivery system. 4D printed conduits are also effective as a drug-eluting urethral stent in the porcine model. Overall, this study extends the concept of 4D printing beyond shape transformation and presents an approach of fabricating specialized baths for 4D printing that can also be extended to other materials to obtain 4D printed medical devices with translational potential.
AUTHOR
Title
Zein-based 3D tubular constructs with tunable porosity for 3D cell culture and drug delivery
[Abstract]
Year
2023
Journal/Proceedings
Biomedical Engineering Advances
Reftype
Groups
AbstractManufacturing tubular constructs with tunable porosity can mimic the vascular structure, not only for supplying nutrients and removing metabolites to support long-term 3D cell culture but also for delivering bioactive components and drugs to tissues. There are few reports on the second purpose through 3D printing. In this study, bio-inspired tubular constructs with permeability were achieved using zein-based ink, forming structures with tunable porosity via the 3D printing technique. The parameters, e.g., zein content, with/without the addition of porogen, and drying conditions, were optimized to control the porous structure and porosity of the printed tubes. The inner wall of the resultant tube supported the adhesion of endothelial cells. A perfusion system was designed, and the penetrability of zein-based tubular constructs was demonstrated by the dialysis test. Moreover, perfusion of cell culture media and the anti-cancer drug in cell-laden hydrogels with tubular structure resulted in 3-day of 3D cell culture with a higher survival rate, and the drug was delivered to local cells around the tubular constructs, respectively. This is a new report on the preparation of 3D-printed tubular constructs using zein as the biomaterial inks with tunable porosity and porous structure, providing a general system for 3D cell culture, 3D drugs screening/pharmacokinetics in vitro, and tissue engineering.
AUTHOR
Title
3D Printing of Triamcinolone Acetonide in Triblock Copolymers of Styrene–Isobutylene–Styrene as a Slow-Release System
[Abstract]
Year
2022
Journal/Proceedings
Polymers
Reftype
Groups
AbstractAdditive manufacturing has a wide range of applications and has opened up new methods of drug formulation, in turn achieving attention in medicine. We prepared styrene–isobutylene–styrene triblock copolymers (SIBS; Mn = 10 kDa–25 kDa, PDI 1,3–1,6) as a drug carrier for triamcinolone acetonide (TA), further processed by fused deposition modeling to create a solid drug release system displaying improved bioavailability and applicability. Living carbocationic polymerization was used to exert control over block length and polymeric architecture. Thermorheological properties of the SIBS polymer (22.3 kDa, 38 wt % S) were adjusted to the printability of SIBS/TA mixtures (1–5% of TA), generating an effective release system effective for more than 60 days. Continuous drug release and morphological investigations were conducted to probe the influence of the 3D printing process on the drug release, enabling 3D printing as a formulation method for a slow-release system of Triamcinolone.
AUTHOR
Title
Collagen-Tannic Acid Spheroids for β-Cell Encapsulation Fabricated Using a 3D Bioprinter
[Abstract]
Year
2022
Journal/Proceedings
Advanced Materials Technologies
Reftype
DOI/URL
DOI
Groups
AbstractAbstract Type 1 Diabetes results from autoimmune response elicited against β-cell antigens. Nowadays, insulin injections remain the leading therapeutic option. However, injection treatment fails to emulate the highly dynamic insulin release that β-cells provide. 3D cell-laden microspheres have been proposed during the last years as a major platform for bioengineering insulin-secreting constructs for tissue graft implantation and a model for in vitro drug screening platforms. Current microsphere fabrication technologies have several drawbacks: the need for an oil phase containing surfactants, diameter inconsistency of the microspheres, and high time-consuming processes. These technologies have widely used alginate for its rapid gelation, high processability, and low cost. However, its low biocompatible properties do not provide effective cell attachment. This study proposes a high-throughput methodology using a 3D bioprinter that employs an ECM-like microenvironment for effective cell-laden microsphere production to overcome these limitations. Crosslinking the resulting microspheres with tannic acid prevents collagenase degradation and enhances spherical structural consistency while allowing the diffusion of nutrients and oxygen. The approach allows customization of microsphere diameter with extremely low variability. In conclusion, a novel bio-printing procedure is developed to fabricate large amounts of reproducible microspheres capable of secreting insulin in response to extracellular glucose stimuli.
AUTHOR
Year
2022
Journal/Proceedings
Pharmaceutics
Reftype
AbstractSince the appearance of the 3D printing in the 1980s it has revolutionized many research fields including the pharmaceutical industry. The main goal is to manufacture complex, personalized products in a low-cost manufacturing process on-demand. In the last few decades, 3D printing has attracted the attention of numerous research groups for the manufacturing of different drug delivery systems. Since the 2015 approval of the first 3D-printed drug product, the number of publications has multiplied. In our review, we focused on summarizing the evolution of the produced drug delivery systems in the last 20 years and especially in the last 5 years. The drug delivery systems are sub-grouped into tablets, capsules, orodispersible films, implants, transdermal delivery systems, microneedles, vaginal drug delivery systems, and micro- and nanoscale dosage forms. Our classification may provide guidance for researchers to more easily examine the publications and to find further research directions.
AUTHOR
Year
2021
Journal/Proceedings
Angewandte Chemie International Edition
Reftype
DOI/URL
DOI
Groups
AbstractHydrogels are widely used in various biomedical applications, as they cannot only serve as materials for biofabrication but also as depots for the administration of drugs. However, the possibilities of formulation of water-insoluble drugs in hydrogels are rather limited. In this study, we assembled recombinant spider silk gels using a new processing route with aqueous-organic co-solvents, and the properties of these gels could be controlled by the choice of the co-solvent. The presence of the organic co-solvent further enabled the incorporation of hydrophobic drugs as exemplary shown for 6-mercaptopurine. The developed gels showed shear-thinning behaviour and could be easily injected to serve e.g. as drug depots and could even be 3D printed to serve as scaffolds for biofabrication. With this new processing route, the formulation of water-insoluble drugs in spider silk-based depots is possible, circumventing common pharmaceutical solubility issues.
AUTHOR
Title
Development of bioactive catechol functionalized nanoparticles applicable for 3D bioprinting
[Abstract]
Year
2021
Journal/Proceedings
Materials Science and Engineering: C
Reftype
Groups
AbstractEfficient wound treatments to target specific events in the healing process of chronic wounds constitute a significant aim in regenerative medicine. In this sense, nanomedicine can offer new opportunities to improve the effectiveness of existing wound therapies. The aim of this study was to develop catechol bearing polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) and to evaluate their potential in the field of wound healing. Thus, NPs wound healing promoting activities, potential for drug encapsulation and controlled release, and further incorporation in a hydrogel bioink formulation to fabricate cell-laden 3D scaffolds are studied. NPs with 2 and 29 M % catechol contents (named NP2 and NP29) were obtained by nanoprecipitation and presented hydrodynamic diameters of 100 and 75 nm respectively. These nanocarriers encapsulated the hydrophobic compound coumarin-6 with 70% encapsulation efficiency values. In cell culture studies, the NPs had a protective effect in RAW 264.7 macrophages against oxidative stress damage induced by radical oxygen species (ROS). They also presented a regulatory effect on the inflammatory response of stimulated macrophages and promoted upregulation of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in fibroblasts and endothelial cells. In particular, NP29 were used in a hydrogel bioink formulation using carboxymethyl chitosan and hyaluronic acid as polymeric matrices. Using a reactive mixing bioprinting approach, NP-loaded hydrogel scaffolds with good structural integrity, shape fidelity and homogeneous NPs dispersion, were obtained. The in vitro catechol NPs release profile of the printed scaffolds revealed a sustained delivery. The bioprinted scaffolds supported viability and proliferation of encapsulated L929 fibroblasts over 14 days. We envision that the catechol functionalized NPs and resulting bioactive bioink presented in this work offer promising advantages for wound healing applications, as they: 1) support controlled release of bioactive catechol NPs to the wound site; 2) can incorporate additional therapeutic functions by co-encapsulating drugs; 3) can be printed into 3D scaffolds with tailored geometries based on patient requirements.
AUTHOR
Title
Biodegradation of Crystalline Cellulose Nanofibers by Means of Enzyme Immobilized-Alginate Beads and Microparticles
[Abstract]
Year
2020
Journal/Proceedings
Polymers
Reftype
Groups
AbstractRecent advances in nanocellulose technology have revealed the potential of crystalline cellulose nanofibers to reinforce materials which are useful for tissue engineering, among other functions. However, the low biodegradability of nanocellulose can possess some problems in biomedical applications. In this work, alginate particles with encapsulated enzyme cellulase extracted from Trichoderma reesei were prepared for the biodegradation of crystalline cellulose nanofibers, which carrier system could be incorporated in tissue engineering biomaterials to degrade the crystalline cellulose nanoreinforcement in situ and on-demand during tissue regeneration. Both alginate beads and microparticles were processed by extrusion-dropping and inkjet-based methods, respectively. Processing parameters like the alginate concentration, concentration of ionic crosslinker Ca2+, hardening time, and ionic strength of the medium were varied. The hydrolytic activity of the free and encapsulated enzyme was evaluated for unmodified (CNFs) and TEMPO-oxidized cellulose nanofibers (TOCNFs) in suspension (heterogeneous conditions); in comparison to solubilized cellulose derivatives (homogeneous conditions). The enzymatic activity was evaluated for temperatures between 25–75 °C, pH range from 3.5 to 8.0 and incubation times until 21 d. Encapsulated cellulase in general displayed higher activity compared to the free enzyme over wider temperature and pH ranges and for longer incubation times. A statistical design allowed optimizing the processing parameters for the preparation of enzyme-encapsulated alginate particles presenting the highest enzymatic activity and sphericity. The statistical analysis yielded the optimum particles characteristics and properties by using a formulation of 2% (w/v) alginate, a coagulation bath of 0.2 M CaCl2 and a hardening time of 1 h. In homogeneous conditions the highest catalytic activity was obtained at 55 °C and pH 4.8. These temperature and pH values were considered to study the biodegradation of the crystalline cellulose nanofibers in suspension. The encapsulated cellulase preserved its activity for several weeks over that of the free enzyme, which latter considerably decreased and practically showed deactivation after just 10 d. The alginate microparticles with their high surface area-to-volume ratio effectively allowed the controlled release of the encapsulated enzyme and thereby the sustained hydrolysis of the cellulose nanofibers. The relative activity of cellulase encapsulated in the microparticles leveled-off at around 60% after one day and practically remained at that value for three weeks.
AUTHOR
Year
2020
Journal/Proceedings
Macromolecular Bioscience
Reftype
DOI/URL
DOI
Groups
AbstractAbstract The immobilization of enzymes into polymer hydrogels is a versatile approach to improve their stability and utility in biotechnological and biomedical applications. However, these systems typically show limited enzyme activity, due to unfavorable pore dimensions and low enzyme accessibility. Here, 3D jet writing of water-based bioinks, which contain preloaded enzymes, is used to prepare hydrogel scaffolds with well-defined, tessellated micropores. After 3D jet writing, the scaffolds are chemically modified via photopolymerization to ensure mechanical stability. Enzyme loading and activity in the hydrogel scaffolds is fully retained over 3 d. Important structural parameters of the scaffolds such as pore size, pore geometry, and wall diameter are controlled with micrometer resolution to avoid mass-transport limitations. It is demonstrated that scaffold pore sizes between 120 µm and 1 mm can be created by 3D jet writing approaching the length scales of free diffusion in the hydrogels substrates and resulting in high levels of enzyme activity (21.2% activity relative to free enzyme). With further work, a broad range of applications for enzyme-laden hydrogel scaffolds including diagnostics and enzymatic cascade reactions is anticipated.
AUTHOR
Year
2020
Journal/Proceedings
Additive Manufacturing
Reftype
AbstractAlthough 3D printing (3DP) has long been an integral part of industries such as aviation and automotive, its use in healthcare, especially the pharmaceutical industry, is relatively new and currently receiving close attention. At the beginning of 2018, we reviewed the applications of 3DP for drug delivery and drug testing [1]. Due to the rapid development of this field, it is necessary to summarize the latest development in this field after 2 years. In this article, we reviewed the three major areas in pharmaceutical applications. First, drug delivery system is the most studied subject, including controlled release, polypills, gastrofloating, orodispersibles and microneedles. Second, 3DP also helped the development of pharmaceutical devices, including pharmacy dispensing aids and drug eluting devices. Lastly, we reviewed the pharmaceutical models for drug testing, covering acellular and cellular models. We also summarized the materials used in the mentioned articles and their regulatory status for pharmaceutical applications to provide references for future research.
AUTHOR
Title
3D Printing/Bioprinting Based Tailoring of in Vitro Tissue Models: Recent Advances and Challenges
[Abstract]
Year
2019
Journal/Proceedings
ACS Applied Bio Materials
Reftype
DOI/URL
DOI
AbstractProdigious progress in the past decade has pronounced 3D printing as one of the most promising technique for assembling biological materials in a complex layout that mimics native human tissues. With the advent of technology, several improvements in printing techniques have facilitated the development of intricate strategies and designs that were imaginably distant due to the conventional top-down approaches. Most of these advanced strategies generally follow a thorough coordination and an elaborate biomimetic blueprint due to which it is now possible to fabricate in vitro tissue models with ease. However, much remains to be accomplished at several forefronts for utilizing this technology to its full potential. With several printing strategies at the lead, it has now become essential to systematically analyze and learn from several endeavors such that shortcomings can be understood and future efforts can be made toward negating them. Taking account of all the recent tissue specific developments in this field, this review serves as a framework for bringing together in discussion several strategies and constraints in developing small scaled in vitro tissues. Highlighting the growing popularity of the organ and body on chip platforms and their easy scale up using 3D printing, latest advancements, and the challenges in this field are also discussed. Prodigious progress in the past decade has pronounced 3D printing as one of the most promising technique for assembling biological materials in a complex layout that mimics native human tissues. With the advent of technology, several improvements in printing techniques have facilitated the development of intricate strategies and designs that were imaginably distant due to the conventional top-down approaches. Most of these advanced strategies generally follow a thorough coordination and an elaborate biomimetic blueprint due to which it is now possible to fabricate in vitro tissue models with ease. However, much remains to be accomplished at several forefronts for utilizing this technology to its full potential. With several printing strategies at the lead, it has now become essential to systematically analyze and learn from several endeavors such that shortcomings can be understood and future efforts can be made toward negating them. Taking account of all the recent tissue specific developments in this field, this review serves as a framework for bringing together in discussion several strategies and constraints in developing small scaled in vitro tissues. Highlighting the growing popularity of the organ and body on chip platforms and their easy scale up using 3D printing, latest advancements, and the challenges in this field are also discussed.
AUTHOR
Year
2018
Journal/Proceedings
Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews
Reftype
Groups
AbstractThe US Food and Drug Administration approval of the first 3D printed tablet in 2015 has ignited growing interest in 3D printing, or additive manufacturing (AM), for drug delivery and testing systems. Beyond just a novel method for rapid prototyping, AM provides key advantages over traditional manufacturing of drug delivery and testing systems. These includes the ability to fabricate complex geometries to achieve variable drug release kinetics; ease of personalising pharmacotherapy for patient and lowering the cost for fabricating personalised dosages. Furthermore, AM allows fabrication of complex and micron-sized tissue scaffolds and models for drug testing systems that closely resemble in vivo conditions. However, there are several limitations such as regulatory concerns that may impede the progression to market. Here, we provide an overview of the advantages of AM drug delivery and testing, as compared to traditional manufacturing techniques. Also, we discuss the key challenges and future directions for AM enabled pharmaceutical applications.
AUTHOR
Title
Development and performance of a 3D‐printable Polyethylenglycol‐Diacrylate hydrogel suitable for enzyme entrapment and long‐term biocatalytic applications
[Abstract]
Year
2018
Journal/Proceedings
Engineering in Life Sciences
Reftype
DOI/URL
DOI
Groups
AbstractPhysical entrapment of enzymes within a porous matrix is a fast and gentle process to immobilize biocatalysts to enable their recycling and long‐term use. This study introduces the development of a biocompatible 3D‐printing material suitable for enzyme entrapment, while having good rheological and UV‐hardening properties. Three different viscosity‐enhancing additives have been tested in combination with a polyethylenglycol‐diacrylate‐based hydrogel system. The addition of polyxanthan or hectorite clay particles results in hydrogels that degrade over hours or days, releasing entrapped compounds. In contrast, the addition of nanometer‐sized silicate particles ensures processability while preventing disintegration of the hydrogel. Lattice structures with a total height of 6 mm consisting of 40 layers were 3D‐printed with all materials and characterized by image analysis. Rheological measurements identified a shear stress window of 200 < τ < 500 Pa at shear rates of 25 s−1 and 25°C for well‐defined geometries with an extrusion‐based printhead. Enzymes immobilized in these long‐term stable hydrogel structures retained an effective activity of approximately 10% compared to the free enzyme in solution. It could be shown that the reduction of effective activity isn't caused by a significant reduction of the intrinsic enzyme activity but by mass transfer limitations within the printed hydrogel structures. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved
AUTHOR
Year
2018
Journal/Proceedings
ACS Biomaterials Science and Engineering
Reftype
DOI/URL
DOI
Groups
AbstractTherapeutic biologics (i.e., proteins) have been widely recognized for the treatment, prevention, and cure of a variety of human diseases and syndromes. However, design of novel protein-delivery systems to achieve a nontoxic, constant, and efficient delivery with minimal doses of therapeutic biologics is still challenging. Here, recombinant spider silk-based materials are employed as a delivery system for the administration of therapeutic biologicals. Hydrogels made of the recombinant spider silk protein eADF4(C16) were used to encapsulate the model biologicals BSA, HRP, and LYS by direct loading or through diffusion, and their release was studied. Release of model biologicals from eADF4(C16) hydrogels is in part dependent on the electrostatic interaction between the biological and the recombinant spider silk protein variant used. In addition, tailoring the pore sizes of eADF4(C16) hydrogels strongly influenced the release kinetics. In a second approach, a particles-in-hydrogel system was used, showing a prolonged release in comparison with that of plain hydrogels (from days to week). The particle-enforced spider silk hydrogels are injectable and can be 3D printed. These initial studies indicate the potential of recombinant spider silk proteins to design novel injectable hydrogels that are suitable for delivering therapeutic biologics.
AUTHOR
Year
2017
Journal/Proceedings
Soft Matter
Reftype
DOI/URL
DOI
Groups
Abstract3D printing via direct ink writing (DIW) is a versatile additive manufacturing approach applicable to a variety of materials ranging from ceramics over composites to hydrogels. Due to the mild processing conditions compared to other additive manufacturing methods{,} DIW enables the incorporation of sensitive compounds such as proteins or drugs into the printed structure. Although emulsified oil-in-water systems are commonly used vehicles for such compounds in biomedical{,} pharmaceutical{,} and cosmetic applications{,} printing of such emulsions into architectured soft materials has not been fully exploited and would open new possibilities for the controlled delivery of sensitive compounds. Here{,} we 3D print concentrated emulsions into soft materials{,} whose multiphase architecture allows for site-specific incorporation of both hydrophobic and hydrophilic compounds into the same structure. As a model ink{,} concentrated emulsions stabilized by chitosan-modified silica nanoparticles are studied{,} because they are sufficiently stable against coalescence during the centrifugation step needed to create a bridging network of droplets. The resulting ink is ideal for 3D printing as it displays high yield stress{,} storage modulus and elastic recovery{,} through the formation of networks of droplets as well as of gelled silica nanoparticles in the presence of chitosan. To demonstrate possible architectures{,} we print biocompatible soft materials with tunable hierarchical porosity containing an encapsulated hydrophobic compound positioned in specific locations of the structure. The proposed emulsion-based ink system offers great flexibility in terms of 3D shaping and local compositional control{,} and can potentially help address current challenges involving the delivery of incompatible compounds in biomedical applications.
AUTHOR
Year
2017
Journal/Proceedings
International Journal of Pharmaceutical Investigation
Reftype
DOI/URL
URL
AbstractOrally administered solid dosage forms currently dominate over all other dosage forms and routes of administrations. However, human gastrointestinal tract (GIT) poses a number of obstacles to delivery of the drugs to the site of interest and absorption in the GIT. Pharmaceutical scientists worldwide have been interested in colon drug delivery for several decades, not only for the delivery of the drugs for the treatment of colonic diseases such as ulcerative colitis and colon cancer but also for delivery of therapeutic proteins and peptides for systemic absorption. Despite extensive research in the area of colon targeted drug delivery, we have not been able to come up with an effective way of delivering drugs to the colon. The current tablets designed for colon drug release depend on either pH-dependent or time-delayed release formulations. During ulcerative colitis the gastric transit time and colon pH-levels is constantly changing depending on whether the patient is having a relapse or under remission. Hence, the current drug delivery system to the colon is based on one-size-fits-all. Fails to effectively deliver the drugs locally to the colon for colonic diseases and delivery of therapeutic proteins and peptides for systemic absorption from the colon. Hence, to overcome the current issues associated with colon drug delivery, we need to provide the patients with personalized tablets which are specifically designed to match the individual's gastric transit time depending on the disease state. Three-dimensional (3D) printing (3DP) technology is getting cheaper by the day and bespoke manufacturing of 3D-printed tablets could provide the solutions in the form of personalized colon drug delivery system. This review provides a bird's eye view of applications and current advances in pharmaceutical 3DP with emphasis on the development of colon targeted drug delivery systems.
AUTHOR
Year
2017
Journal/Proceedings
Angewandte Chemie International Edition
Reftype
DOI/URL
DOI
Groups
AbstractThe convergence of biofabrication with nanotechnology is largely unexplored but enables geometrical control of cell-biomaterial arrangement combined with controlled drug delivery and release. As a step towards integration of these two fields of research, this study demonstrates that modulation of electrostatic nanoparticle–polymer and nanoparticle–nanoparticle interactions can be used for tuning nanoparticle release kinetics from 3D printed hydrogel scaffolds. This generic strategy can be used for spatiotemporal control of the release kinetics of nanoparticulate drug vectors in biofabricated constructs.