3D-Printed Gelatin Methacryloyl-Based Scaffolds with Potential Application in Tissue Engineering

The development of materials for 3D printing adapted for tissue engineering represents one of the main concerns nowadays. Our aim was to obtain suitable 3D-printed scaffolds based on methacrylated gelatin (GelMA). In this respect, three degrees of GelMA methacrylation, three different concentrations of GelMA (10%, 20%, and 30%), and also two concentrations of photoinitiator (I-2959) (0.5% and 1%) were explored to develop proper GelMA hydrogel ink formulations to be used in the 3D printing process. Afterward, all these GelMA hydrogel-based inks/3D-printed scaffolds were characterized structurally, mechanically, and morphologically. The presence of methacryloyl groups bounded to the surface of GelMA was confirmed by FTIR and H-1-NMR analyses. The methacrylation degree influenced the value of the isoelectric point that decreased with the GelMA methacrylation degree. A greater concentration of photoinitiator influenced the hydrophilicity of the polymer as proved using contact angle and swelling studies because of the new bonds resulting after the photocrosslinking stage. According to the mechanical tests, better mechanical properties were obtained in the presence of the 1% initiator. Circular dichroism analyses demonstrated that the secondary structure of gelatin remained unaffected during the methacrylation process, thus being suitable for biological applications.

Automated summary

The focus of this study was on developing suitable GelMA hydrogel inks for 3D printing in tissue engineering applications. By exploring different degrees of GelMA methacrylation, concentrations of GelMA, and concentrations of photoinitiator, the researchers were able to determine the optimal formulations for the printing process. The presence of methacryloyl groups, the isoelectric point, hydrophilicity, mechanical properties, and structural integrity of the GelMA-based inks and 3D-printed scaffolds were thoroughly characterized to ensure their suitability for biological applications.