Innovative 3D Bioprinting for Primary and iPSC-Derived Organoids

University of Pittsburgh researchers have developed an innovative 3D bioprinting platform capable of generating functional primary and induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived organoids within hydrogel constructs. This innovative technology leverages a unique bioink formulation and 3D printing protocol to create stable, high-resolution 3D tissue structures that can be used for various biomedical applications, including drug discovery, disease modeling, transplantation, and personalized cellular therapy. 

 

Description

The 3D bioprinting platform utilizes a bioink composed of 3% w/v alginate and 6% w/v methylcellulose, which is crosslinked with 100 mM CaCl2 to form macroporous structures. This bioink supports the incorporation and growth of both primary cells and iPSCs, allowing for the creation of functional organoids. The printing protocol minimizes mechanical stress on the cells, preserving their integrity, viability and functionality. The platform has successfully printed various cell types, including cadaveric human islets, undifferentiated iPSCs, and differentiated iPSC aggregates, demonstrating the versatility and potential of this technology for personalized medicine.

Applications

• Drug discovery and testing
• Disease modeling
• Personalized cellular therapy
• Tissue engineering
• Regenerative medicine

Advantages

This 3D bioprinting platform uses affordable biocompatible polymers to create stable, high-resolution constructs with minimal mechanical stress on cells. It supports the growth and functionality of both primary and iPSC-derived cells, enabling personalized tissue constructs that reduce inflammation and rejection risks. The platform demonstrates long-term viability and functionality of printed cells, such as insulin secretion by printed islets in response to glucose, and provides a versatile, scalable method for producing soft tissue-like constructs for various biomedical applications.

Invention Readiness

The technology is currently at the prototype stage, with in vitro data demonstrating its effectiveness. The platform has shown significant success in printing and culturing functional primary cells and iPSC-derived organoids, with continued ongoing research to further validate and optimize the system.

IP Status

Patent Pending