Extracellular Matrix Microparticles Improve GelMA Bioink Resolution for 3D Bioprinting at Ambient Temperature

Introduction: Current bioinks for 3D bioprinting, such as gelatin-methacryloyl, are generally low viscosity fluids at room temperature, requiring specialized systems to create complex geometries. Methods and Results: Adding decellularized extracellular matrix microparticles derived from porcine tracheal cartilage to gelatin-methacryloyl creates a yield stress fluid capable of forming self-supporting structures. This bioink blend performs similarly at 25 degrees C to gelatin-methacryloyl alone at 15 degrees C in linear resolution, print fidelity, and tensile mechanics. Conclusion: This method lowers barriers to manufacturing complex tissue geometries and removes the need for cooling systems.

Automated summary

This study proposes a method to improve the viscosity of bioinks by adding decellularized extracellular matrix microparticles to gelatin-methacryloyl, creating a fluid capable of self-supporting structures. The method performs similarly to traditional methods in terms of print quality and mechanical properties, while eliminating the need for cooling systems.