Vat-based 3D-bioprinted scaffolds from photocurable bacterial levan for osteogenesis and immunomodulation

Title : Vat-based 3D-bioprinted scaffolds from photocurable bacterial levan for osteogenesis and immunomodulation

Abstract:

Emerging techniques of additive manufacturing, such as vat-based three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting, offer novel routes to prepare personalized scaffolds of complex geometries. However, there is a need to develop bioinks suitable for clinical translation. This study explored the potential of bacterial-sourced methacrylate levan (LeMA) as a bioink for 3D-bioprinting of bone tissue scaffolds using digital light processing (DLP). LeMA was successfully synthesized, characterized, and used to fabricate 3D-bioprinted scaffolds with excellent printability and physicochemical properties. In vitro studies demonstrated superior cytocompatibility of 15 % LeMA compared to 20 % w/v formulations. The 15 % LeMA shows osteogenic potential evidenced by enhanced alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and mineral deposition in MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblasts. Importantly, the LeMA hydrogels positively modulated macrophage phenotype, promoting the expression of the anti-inflammatory marker CD206. These findings suggest that 3D-printed LeMA scaffolds can create a favorable microenvironment for bone regeneration, highlighting their potential for tissue repair and regeneration applications.

Keywords: Polysaccharide, 3D bioprinting, tissue engineering, hydrogels, immunomodulatory 

Biography:

Yusuf is a fourth-year Ph.D. student in the Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering Laboratory at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, under the guidance of Prof. Kaushik Chatterjee. He holds a B.Engr. and MSc in Materials Science and Engineering from Nigeria, where he garnered numerous awards and travel grants. His strong academic record, marked by exceptional coursework and research achievements, underscores his dedication and potential. Yusuf's current research focuses on 3D bioprinting for bone tissue regeneration and repair. He has a growing publication record, with several articles published and accepted; some are in the advanced stages of completion.