Bioprinting synthetic self-assembling peptide hydrogels for biomedical applications

Yihua Loo, Charlotte A E Hauser

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

60 Scopus citations

Abstract

Three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting is a disruptive technology for creating organotypic constructs for high-throughput screening and regenerative medicine. One major challenge is the lack of suitable bioinks. Short synthetic self-assembling peptides are ideal candidates. Several classes of peptides self-assemble into nanofibrous hydrogels resembling the native extracellular matrix. This is a conducive microenvironment for maintaining cell survival and physiological function. Many peptides also demonstrate stimuli-responsive gelation and tuneable mechanical properties, which facilitates extrusion before dispensing and maintains the shape fidelity of the printed construct in aqueous media. The inherent biocompatibility and biodegradability bodes well for in vivo applications as implantable tissues and drug delivery matrices, while their short length and ease of functionalization facilitates synthesis and customization. By applying self-assembling peptide inks to bioprinting, the dynamic complexity of biological tissue can be recreated, thereby advancing current biomedical applications of peptide hydrogel scaffolds.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)14103
Number of pages1
JournalBiomedical materials (Bristol, England)
Volume11
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Feb 1 2016
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Bioengineering
  • Biomaterials
  • Biomedical Engineering

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Bioprinting synthetic self-assembling peptide hydrogels for biomedical applications'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this