Abstract

3D Hydrogels and Bioinks for Realistic In-Vitro Modelling and Bioprinting

Elia Lopez-Bernardo, Global Business Development Manager, Biogelx

Biogelx have developed innovative biomaterials offering artificial tissue environments for 3D cell culture and bioprinting applications. The technology platform is based on peptide hydrogels and bioinks which contain ECM-relevant ligands and are highly tunable. They are three-dimensional, 99% water and have the same nanoscale matrix structure as human tissue. Biogelx biomaterials are non-animal derived and their surface chemistry and mechanical properties can be tuned to meet the needs of any given cell or tissue type.

These novel hydrogels and bioinks form a nanofibrous network mimicking the extracellular matrix, which supports cell function, signaling, and proliferation. They have been developed and improved to ensure the rheological properties are optimal for 3D bioprinting. Additionally, they provide great 3D fidelity and do not require the use of support/sacrificial materials or curing agents. These are unique, versatile materials which offer important benefits for researchers by providing a base modular gel in which the stiffness and surface peptides can be adapted. They offer complete reproducibility, viscosity control, an easy crosslinking method and excellent printability within the same material.

These novel materials are creating new opportunities in the fields of cancer biology, stem cell research and tissue engineering by offering synthetic-yet-biologically-relevant alternatives to traditional, animal-derived matrices.