Functionalizing bioinks for 3D bioprinting applications. Issue 1 (January 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Parak, Azraa; Pradeep, Priyamvada; du Toit, Lisa C.; Kumar, Pradeep; Choonara, Yahya E.; Pillay, Viness
• Is Part Of: Drug discovery today. Volume 24:Issue 1(2019)
• Page Start: 198
• Page End: 205
• Publication Date: 2019-01
• Subjects: Drugs -- Design -- Periodicals; Drugs -- Research -- Periodicals; 615.1
• DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2018.09.012
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1359-6446

Abstract

Graphical abstract: Highlights: No biomaterial possesses the optimal properties desirable in biomimetic constructs. Polymer concentration and molecular weight influence the properties of the bioink. Mechanical strength, printability and bioactivity are vital properties to consider. Combining polymers with different properties often yields positive results. Crosslinking improves mechanical strength but hinders printability and bioactivity. Abstract : 3D bioprinting has emerged as the intersection between chemistry, biology and technology. Through its integration of cells, biocompatible materials and robotic-controlled dispensing systems, the process enables the production of structures that are biomimetic and functional, thus revolutionizing the concept of tissue engineering. One of the biggest limitations of 3D bioprinting for tissue engineering is the lack of printable materials (bioinks) with all-inclusive properties desirable for the construction of engineered 'bio-physico-functional' tissues and organs. Thus, bioinks are required to be functionalized or altered to produce the most desirable bioarchetypes. Functionalization methods vary across chemical, mechanical, physical and biological methods, and common methods include blending of materials, coatings, crosslinking and exploiting functional groups. In this short review, a description and critical comparison of reported functionalization methods, focusing on their effects and contributions toward bioinks, have been presented.