3D Bioprinting of Collagen-based Microfluidics for Engineering Fully-biologic Tissue Systems

Abstract

Microfluidic and organ-on-a-chip devices have improved the physiologic and translational relevance of in vitro systems in applications ranging from disease modeling to drug discovery and pharmacology. However, current manufacturing approaches have limitations in terms of materials used, non-native mechanical properties, patterning of extracellular matrix (ECM) and cells in 3D, and remodeling by cells into more complex tissues. We present a method to 3D bioprint ECM and cells into microfluidic collagen-based high-resolution internally perfusable scaffolds (CHIPS) that address these limitations, expand design complexity, and simplify fabrication. Additionally, CHIPS enable size-dependent diffusion of molecules out of perfusable channels into the surrounding device to support cell migration and remodeling, formation of capillary-like networks, and integration of secretory cell types to form a glucose-responsive, insulin-secreting pancreatic-like microphysiological system.

Competing Interest Statement

ARH and AWF are employed by and have an equity stake in FluidFormBio, Inc, which is a startup company commercializing FRESH 3D printing. FRESH 3D printing is the subject of patent protection including US Patents 10,150,258, 11,672,887 and others.