Recent advances in 3D bioprinting for cartilage and osteochondral regeneration

Abstract

Cartilage and osteochondral tissues are vital tissues in the human body for normal activities. Cartilage and osteochondral defects represent prevalent clinical entities due to the limited regenerative capacity of the corresponding tissues. This growing disease burden underscores the urgent need for advanced therapeutic strategies facilitating both cartilage and osteochondral regeneration. With advancements in bioprinting technology, cartilage and osteochondral tissue engineering offers new hope for treatment. However, bioprinting of cartilage and osteochondral tissue still faces significant challenges, including replicating the mechanical properties and lubrication function of cartilage and osteochondral tissue, as well as mimicking the structural complexity of bone-cartilage tissues. In recent years, the development of innovative bioinks and novel bioprinting technologies has provided new solutions for the biomanufacturing of cartilage and osteochondral tissue. This article systematically reviews the latest developments in the field of bioprinting for cartilage and osteochondral tissue engineering, addressing potential directions, challenges, and covering topics, such as bioprinting techniques, bioinks, and recent advancements in cartilage and osteochondral regeneration. Through this article, future potential directions and existing challenges in the bioprinting of cartilage and osteochondral tissue can be further clarified.

Keywords

3D bioprinting / Biofabrication / Cartilage / Composite ink / Extrusion-based printing / Hydrogel