Optimization of alginate/gelatin/dextran-aldehyde bioink for 3D bioprinting and cell engraftment

Abstract

The development of bioinks with optimized printability, mechanical properties, and biocompatibility is critical for advancing three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting and tissue engineering. In this study, we introduce an alginate/gelatin/dextran-aldehyde (AGDA) bioink, designed to balance structural integrity and cellular functionality. Among the tested formulations, AGDA1 demonstrated superior performance, with optimized printability and high cell compatibility. AGDA bioinks involve dual crosslinking (ionic gelation of alginate and Schiff base formation between gelatin and dextran-aldehyde), permitting appropriate stiffness, viscosity, and thixotropic behavior. Fibroblasts encapsulated in AGDA, either as single cells, spheroids, or a combination of both, exhibited high viability and proliferative capacity. Notably, the combination method supported the highest cellular density and fibroblast-specific morphological transformations, surpassing the commercially available GelXA bioink. These findings highlight AGDA’s potential as a versatile bioink for fabricating complex and scalable tissue constructs. In summary, this study contributes to the development of bioinks tailored for enhanced cell engraftment and regenerative applications.

Keywords

Bioink / Bioprinting / Dual crosslinking / Spheroid / Tissue engineering

Funding

This research was supported by the Challengeable Future Defense Technology Research and Development Program through the Agency For Defense Development (ADD) funded by the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) in 2024 (No. 915060201).

Conflict of interest

The authors declare they have no competing interests.

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