Photocuring 3D printing technology as an advanced tool for promoting angiogenesis in hypoxia-related diseases

Abstract

Three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting has emerged as a promising strategy for fabricating complex tissue analogs with intricate architectures, such as vascular networks. Achieving this necessitates bioink formulations that possess highly printable properties and provide a cell-friendly microenvironment mimicking the native extracellular matrix. Rapid advancements in printing techniques continue to expand the capabilities of researchers, enabling them to overcome existing biological barriers. This review offers a comprehensive examination of ultraviolet-based 3D bioprinting, renowned for its exceptional precision compared to other techniques, and explores its applications in inducing angiogenesis across diverse tissue models related to hypoxia. The high-precision and rapid photocuring capabilities of 3D bioprinting are essential for accurately replicating the intricate complexity of vascular networks and extending the diffusion limits for nutrients and gases. Addressing the lack of vascular structure is crucial in hypoxia-related diseases, as it can significantly improve oxygen delivery and overall tissue health. Consequently, high-resolution 3D bioprinting facilitates the creation of vascular structures within three-dimensional engineered tissues, offering a potential solution for addressing hypoxia-related diseases. Emphasis is placed on fundamental components essential for successful 3D bioprinting, including cell types, bioink compositions, and growth factors highlighted in recent studies. The insights provided in this review underscore the promising prospects of leveraging 3D printing technologies for addressing hypoxia-related diseases through the stimulation of angiogenesis, complementing the therapeutic efficacy of cell therapy.

Keywords: Angiogenesis; bioink compositions; cell type; growth factor; ultraviolet-based 3D bioprinting.

Figure 1.

Recent advancements in 3D bioprinting methodologies utilizing UV-based principle: (a) digital light processing 3D printing, (b) computed axial lithography volumetric fabrication, and (c) the general photocuring mechanism.

Figure 2.

Representative cell types employed in 3D bioprinting.

Figure 3.

Schematic of the printing process of inkjet bioprinting.

Figure 4.

General process of employing iPSCs in 3D bioprinting. First, embryonic cells are isolated from the human body and reprogramed into iPSCs. These iPSCs can then be directly incorporated into the bioink or differentiated into fully matured cells for specific applications before being incorporated into the bioink. Finally, the bioink-cell mixture is loaded into 3D bioprinting devices to fabricate the desired models.

Figure 5.

Benefits and detriments of additives in bioinks for 3D bioprinting.