In a groundbreaking study published in the ‘International Journal of Extreme Manufacturing,’ researchers have made significant strides in the construction of a three-dimensional vascularized liver tissue model that could revolutionize biomedical applications and impact the construction sector. This innovative research, led by Weikang Lv from the State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems and the School of Mechanical Engineering at Zhejiang University, addresses the critical need for in vitro models that closely mimic human liver functionality.
The challenge of creating complex vascular structures in low-viscosity materials has long hindered progress in tissue engineering. However, by developing a cross-linkable biphasic embedding medium that combines low-viscosity biomaterials with gelatin microgel, the team has effectively overcome these limitations. This new medium not only exhibits yield stress and self-healing properties but also allows for the efficient and continuous shaping of sacrificial ink, enabling the construction of intricate vascular networks.
“We have achieved a remarkable level of control over the printing process,” Lv stated. “By adjusting the printing speed, we can manipulate the filament diameter, allowing us to create vascular structures that are essential for mimicking the liver’s complex microenvironment.” This precision is vital for ensuring the close adhesion of hepatocytes and endothelial cells, which is crucial for the model’s functionality.
In vitro experiments revealed that the newly developed vascularized liver tissue model significantly outperformed mixed liver tissue in terms of protein synthesis and metabolic function. The research also explored how varying vascular densities can enhance liver tissue functionality, with transcriptome sequencing showing that higher vascular density correlates with increased gene expression related to metabolism and angiogenesis.
This research holds substantial commercial implications for the construction sector, particularly in bioprinting and regenerative medicine. As the demand for more sophisticated tissue models grows, this technology could pave the way for the development of personalized medicine strategies, potentially reducing the reliance on animal testing and expediting drug development processes. Furthermore, the adaptability of the method to various materials opens avenues for creating tailored tissue constructs for specific medical applications.
The ability to rapidly construct three-dimensional vascular structures within liver tissue not only enhances biological functionality but also positions this approach as a key player in the future of tissue engineering. By bridging the gap between engineering and biological sciences, this research exemplifies how innovative construction techniques can lead to significant advancements in healthcare.
For those interested in the full study, it can be found in the ‘International Journal of Extreme Manufacturing,’ a publication dedicated to the latest advancements in manufacturing technologies. For more information about Weikang Lv and his work, you can visit lead_author_affiliation.
