Till Grandjean (Mainz, DE), Dr. Stefan Stein (Frankfurt, DE), Prof. Dr. Peer Kämmerer (Mainz, DE), PD Dr. Ulrike Ritz (Mainz, DE), Dr. Dr. Sebastian Blatt (Mainz, DE)
Abstract text (incl. figure legends and references)
With 3D bioprinting, methods are available in the clinical field to produce targeted bioactive constructs for a wide range of applications. Using an autologous platelet concentrate, injectable platelet rich fibrin (i-PRF), which is widely used in the clinical field, it is possible to improve the bioavailability of a conventional alginate/cellulose hydrogel and thus to achieve cellular support.
The aim was to further develop an existing hydrogel into a bioink using an autologous platelet concentrate to improve cell viability and proliferation of co-incubated and incorporated cells, through the release of entrapped growth factors.
To provide cells with an optimal three-dimensional matrix, a hydrogel of sodium alginate and methylcellulose was loaded with i-PRF and targeted constructs were created using pneumatic extrusion in a bioprinter. Hydrogels were printed, which were subsequently incubated with cells (osteoblasts and HUVECs), as well as gels which were loaded and printed with cells. Cell viability and proliferation were investigated by AlamarBlue assay and fluorescence microscopy and growth factor release by ELISA. In addition, CAM (chorio allantoic membrane) assays were performed to investigate possible pro-angiogenic potential in vivo.
Significantly higher cell viability was observed for both cell types on and in the printed i-PRF hydrogel models compared to native gels based on PBS. The high cell viability over several days could be due to the measured constant growth factor release. Visual evaluation of GFP-transduced cells on and in the models using fluorescence microscopy also highlighted an increase in cell proliferation. The CAM assays performed supported the presumed proangiogenic potential of i-PRF hydrogel by a positive effect on total vessel length and mean vessel thickness.
The advanced hydrogel shows a positive influence on various tissue cells and could be particularly useful in complex clinical areas such as targeted tissue reconstruction.