1
|
Dhand AP, Davidson MD, Zlotnick HM, Kolibaba TJ, Killgore JP, Burdick JA. Additive manufacturing of highly entangled polymer networks. Science 2024; 385:566-572. [PMID: 39088628 DOI: 10.1126/science.adn6925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/03/2024]
Abstract
Incorporation of polymer chain entanglements within a single network can synergistically improve stiffness and toughness, yet attaining such dense entanglements through vat photopolymerization additive manufacturing [e.g., digital light processing (DLP)] remains elusive. We report a facile strategy that combines light and dark polymerization to allow constituent polymer chains to densely entangle as they form within printed structures. This generalizable approach reaches high monomer conversion at room temperature without the need for additional stimuli, such as light or heat after printing, and enables additive manufacturing of highly entangled hydrogels and elastomers that exhibit fourfold- to sevenfold-higher extension energies in comparison to that of traditional DLP. We used this method to print high-resolution and multimaterial structures with features such as spatially programmed adhesion to wet tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek P Dhand
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Matthew D Davidson
- BioFrontiers Institute & Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80303, USA
| | - Hannah M Zlotnick
- BioFrontiers Institute & Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80303, USA
| | - Thomas J Kolibaba
- Applied Chemicals and Materials Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Boulder, CO 80305, USA
| | - Jason P Killgore
- Applied Chemicals and Materials Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Boulder, CO 80305, USA
| | - Jason A Burdick
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute & Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80303, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Riffe MB, Davidson MD, Seymour G, Dhand AP, Cooke ME, Zlotnick HM, McLeod RR, Burdick JA. Multi-Material Volumetric Additive Manufacturing of Hydrogels using Gelatin as a Sacrificial Network and 3D Suspension Bath. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2309026. [PMID: 38243918 PMCID: PMC11259577 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202309026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Revised: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Volumetric additive manufacturing (VAM) is an emerging layerless method for the rapid processing of reactive resins into 3D structures, where printing is much faster (seconds) than other lithography and direct ink writing methods (minutes to hours). As a vial of resin rotates in the VAM process, patterned light exposure defines a 3D object and then resin that has not undergone gelation can be washed away. Despite the promise of VAM, there are challenges with the printing of soft hydrogel materials from non-viscous precursors, including multi-material constructs. To address this, sacrificial gelatin is used to modulate resin viscosity to support the cytocompatible VAM printing of macromers based on poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG), hyaluronic acid (HA), and polyacrylamide (PA). After printing, gelatin is removed by washing at an elevated temperature. To print multi-material constructs, the gelatin-containing resin is used as a shear-yielding suspension bath (including HA to further modulate bath properties) where ink can be extruded into the bath to define a multi-material resin that can then be processed with VAM into a defined object. Multi-material constructs of methacrylated HA (MeHA) and gelatin methacrylamide (GelMA) are printed (as proof-of-concept) with encapsulated mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), where the local hydrogel properties guide cell spreading behavior with culture.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Morgan B Riffe
- Material Science and Engineering Program, College of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
| | - Matthew D Davidson
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
| | - Gabriel Seymour
- Department of Electrical, Computer, and Energy Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
| | - Abhishek P Dhand
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Megan E Cooke
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
| | - Hannah M Zlotnick
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
| | - Robert R McLeod
- Material Science and Engineering Program, College of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
- Department of Electrical, Computer, and Energy Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
| | - Jason A Burdick
- Material Science and Engineering Program, College of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sima W, Yang Y, Sun P, Shi Y, Yuan T, Yang M, Xiong H, Tang X, Niu C. Self-Reporting Microsensors Inspired by Noctiluca Scintillans for Small-Defect Positioning and Electrical-Stress Visualization in Polymers. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2313254. [PMID: 38459423 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202313254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Small defects induce concentrated electrical stress in dielectric polymers, leading to premature failure of materials. Existing sensing methods fail to effectively visualize these defects owing to the invisible-energy state of the electric field. Thus, it is necessary to establish a nondestructive method for the real-time detection of small defects in dielectric polymers. In this study, a self-reporting microsensor (SRM) inspired by Noctiluca scintillans is designed to endow materials with the ability of self-detection for defects and electrical stress. The SRM leverages the energy of a nearby electric field to emit measurable fluorescence, enabling defect localization and diagnosis as well as electrical-stress visualization. A controllable dielectric microsphere is constructed to achieve an adjustable electroluminescence threshold for the SRM, thereby increasing its detection accuracy while decreasing the electroluminescence threshold. The potential degradation in the polymer performance owing to SRM implantation is addressed by assembling long molecular chains on the SRM surface to spontaneously generate an interpenetrating network. Results of finite element analyses and experiments demonstrate that the SRM can effectively realize nondestructive visualization and positioning of small defects and concentrated electrical stress in polymers, positioning it as a promising sensing method for monitoring the electric field and charge distribution in materials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenxia Sima
- State Key Laboratory of Power Transmission Equipment Technology, School of Electrical Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Yuhang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Power Transmission Equipment Technology, School of Electrical Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Potao Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Power Transmission Equipment Technology, School of Electrical Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Yuning Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Power Transmission Equipment Technology, School of Electrical Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Tao Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Power Transmission Equipment Technology, School of Electrical Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Ming Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Power Transmission Equipment Technology, School of Electrical Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Hongbo Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Power Transmission Equipment Technology, School of Electrical Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Xinyu Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Power Transmission Equipment Technology, School of Electrical Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Chaolu Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Power Transmission Equipment Technology, School of Electrical Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Lu G, Tang R, Nie J, Zhu X. Photocuring 3D Printing of Hydrogels: Techniques, Materials, and Applications in Tissue Engineering and Flexible Devices. Macromol Rapid Commun 2024; 45:e2300661. [PMID: 38271638 DOI: 10.1002/marc.202300661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Photocuring 3D printing of hydrogels, with sophisticated, delicate structures and biocompatibility, attracts significant attention by researchers and possesses promising application in the fields of tissue engineering and flexible devices. After years of development, photocuring 3D printing technologies and hydrogel inks make great progress. Herein, the techniques of photocuring 3D printing of hydrogels, including direct ink writing (DIW), stereolithography (SLA), digital light processing (DLP), continuous liquid interface production (CLIP), volumetric additive manufacturing (VAM), and two photon polymerization (TPP) are reviewed. Further, the raw materials for hydrogel inks (photocurable polymers, monomers, photoinitiators, and additives) and applications in tissue engineering and flexible devices are also reviewed. At last, the current challenges and future perspectives of photocuring 3D printing of hydrogels are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guoqiang Lu
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Ruifen Tang
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Jun Nie
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Xiaoqun Zhu
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wang S, Ren K, Zhang M, Shen L, Zhou G, Ding Y, Xin Q, Luo J, Xie J, Li J. Self-Adhesive, Strong Antifouling, and Mechanically Reinforced Methacrylate Hyaluronic Acid Cross-Linked Carboxybetaine Zwitterionic Hydrogels. Biomacromolecules 2024; 25:474-485. [PMID: 38114427 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.3c01088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Hyaluronic acid and zwitterionic hydrogels are soft materials with poor mechanical properties. The unique structures and physiological properties make them attractive candidates for ideal hydrogel dressings, but the crux of lacking satisfying mechanical strengths and adhesive properties is still pendent. In this study, the physical cross-linking of dipole-dipole interactions of zwitterionic pairs was utilized to enhance the mechanical properties of hydrogels. The hydrogels have been prepared by copolymerizing methacrylate hyaluronic (HAGMA) with carboxybetaine methacrylamide (CBMAA) (the mass ratio of [HAGMA]/[CBMAA] is 2:5, 1:5, 1:10, or 1:20), obtaining HA-CB2.5, HA-CB5.0, HA-CB10.0, or HA-CB20.0 hydrogel. Therein, the HA-CB20.0 hydrogel with a high CBMAA content can generate a strong dipole-dipole interaction to form internal physical cross-links, exhibit stretchability and low elastic modulus, and withstand 99% compressive deformation and cyclic compression under strain at 90%. Moreover, the HA-CB20.0 hydrogel is adhesive to diverse substrates, including skin, glass, stainless steel, and plastic. The synergistic effect of HAGMA and CBMAA shows strong anti-biofouling, high water absorption, biodegradability under hyaluronidase, and biocompatibility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuaibing Wang
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, P.R. China
| | - Kai Ren
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, P.R. China
| | - Miao Zhang
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, P.R. China
| | - Luxuan Shen
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, P.R. China
| | - Guangwu Zhou
- School of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, P. R. China
| | - Yuan Ding
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, P.R. China
| | - Qiangwei Xin
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, P.R. China
| | - Jun Luo
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, P.R. China
| | - Jing Xie
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, P.R. China
| | - Jianshu Li
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, P.R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, P.R. China
- Med-X Center for Materials, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Nelson BR, Kirkpatrick BE, Skillin NP, Di Caprio N, Lee JS, Hibbard LP, Hach GK, Khang A, White TJ, Burdick JA, Bowman CN, Anseth KS. Facile Physicochemical Reprogramming of PEG-Dithiolane Microgels. Adv Healthc Mater 2023:e2302925. [PMID: 37984810 PMCID: PMC11102926 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202302925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Granular biomaterials have found widespread applications in tissue engineering, in part because of their inherent porosity, tunable properties, injectability, and 3D printability. However, the assembly of granular hydrogels typically relies on spherical microparticles and more complex particle geometries have been limited in scope, often requiring templating of individual microgels by microfluidics or in-mold polymerization. Here, we use dithiolane-functionalized synthetic macromolecules to fabricate photopolymerized microgels via batch emulsion, and then harness the dynamic disulfide crosslinks to rearrange the network. Through unconfined compression between parallel plates in the presence of photoinitiated radicals, we transform the isotropic microgels are transformed into disks. Characterizing this process, we find that the areas of the microgel surface in contact with the compressive plates are flattened while the curvature of the uncompressed microgel boundaries increases. When cultured with C2C12 myoblasts, cells localize to regions of higher curvature on the disk-shaped microgel surfaces. This altered localization affects cell-driven construction of large supraparticle scaffold assemblies, with spherical particles assembling without specific junction structure while disk microgels assemble preferentially on their curved surfaces. These results represent a unique spatiotemporal process for rapid reprocessing of microgels into anisotropic shapes, providing new opportunities to study shape-driven mechanobiological cues during and after granular hydrogel assembly.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin R Nelson
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
| | - Bruce E Kirkpatrick
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Nathaniel P Skillin
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Nikolas Di Caprio
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Joshua S Lee
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
| | - Lea Pearl Hibbard
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
| | - Grace K Hach
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
| | - Alex Khang
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
| | - Timothy J White
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
| | - Jason A Burdick
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
| | - Christopher N Bowman
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
| | - Kristi S Anseth
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Kunwar P, Andrada BL, Poudel A, Xiong Z, Aryal U, Geffert ZJ, Poudel S, Fougnier D, Gitsov I, Soman P. Printing Double-Network Tough Hydrogels Using Temperature-Controlled Projection Stereolithography (TOPS). ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023. [PMID: 37319377 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c04661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
We report a new method to shape double-network (DN) hydrogels into customized 3D structures that exhibit superior mechanical properties in both tension and compression. A one-pot prepolymer formulation containing photo-cross-linkable acrylamide and thermoreversible sol-gel κ-carrageenan with a suitable cross-linker and photoinitiators/absorbers is optimized. A new TOPS system is utilized to photopolymerize the primary acrylamide network into a 3D structure above the sol-gel transition of κ-carrageenan (80 °C), while cooling down generates the secondary physical κ-carrageenan network to realize tough DN hydrogel structures. 3D structures, printed with high lateral (37 μm) and vertical (180 μm) resolutions and superior 3D design freedoms (internal voids), exhibit ultimate stress and strain of 200 kPa and 2400%, respectively, under tension and simultaneously exhibit a high compression stress of 15 MPa with a strain of 95%, both with high recovery rates. The roles of swelling, necking, self-healing, cyclic loading, dehydration, and rehydration on the mechanical properties of printed structures are also investigated. To demonstrate the potential of this technology to make mechanically reconfigurable flexible devices, we print an axicon lens and show that a Bessel beam can be dynamically tuned via user-defined tensile stretching of the device. This technique can be broadly applied to other hydrogels to make novel smart multifunctional devices for a range of applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Puskal Kunwar
- Biomedical and Chemical Engineering Department, Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York 13210, United States
- BioInspired Institute, Syracuse, New York 13210, United States
| | - Bianca Louise Andrada
- Biomedical and Chemical Engineering Department, Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York 13210, United States
- BioInspired Institute, Syracuse, New York 13210, United States
| | - Arun Poudel
- Biomedical and Chemical Engineering Department, Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York 13210, United States
- BioInspired Institute, Syracuse, New York 13210, United States
| | - Zheng Xiong
- Biomedical and Chemical Engineering Department, Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York 13210, United States
- BioInspired Institute, Syracuse, New York 13210, United States
| | - Ujjwal Aryal
- Biomedical and Chemical Engineering Department, Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York 13210, United States
- BioInspired Institute, Syracuse, New York 13210, United States
| | - Zachary J Geffert
- Biomedical and Chemical Engineering Department, Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York 13210, United States
- BioInspired Institute, Syracuse, New York 13210, United States
| | - Sajag Poudel
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York 13244, United States
| | - Daniel Fougnier
- Biomedical and Chemical Engineering Department, Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York 13210, United States
| | - Ivan Gitsov
- BioInspired Institute, Syracuse, New York 13210, United States
- Department of Chemistry, State University of New York ESF, Syracuse, New York 13210, United States
- The Michael M. Szwarc Polymer Research Institute, Syracuse, New York 13210, United States
| | - Pranav Soman
- Biomedical and Chemical Engineering Department, Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York 13210, United States
- BioInspired Institute, Syracuse, New York 13210, United States
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Muir VG, Weintraub S, Dhand AP, Fallahi H, Han L, Burdick JA. Influence of Microgel and Interstitial Matrix Compositions on Granular Hydrogel Composite Properties. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2206117. [PMID: 36717272 PMCID: PMC10074081 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202206117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Granular hydrogels are an emerging class of biomaterials formed by jamming hydrogel microparticles (i.e., microgels). These materials have many advantageous properties that can be tailored through microgel design and extent of packing. To enhance the range of properties, granular composites can be formed with a hydrogel interstitial matrix between the packed microgels, allowing for material flow and then stabilization after crosslinking. This approach allows for distinct compartments (i.e., microgels and interstitial space) with varied properties to engineer complex material behaviors. However, a thorough investigation of how the compositions and ratios of microgels and interstitial matrices influence material properties has not been performed. Herein, granular hydrogel composites are fabricated by combining fragmented hyaluronic acid (HA) microgels with interstitial matrices consisting of photocrosslinkable HA. Microgels of varying compressive moduli (10-70 kPa) are combined with interstitial matrices (0-30 vol.%) with compressive moduli varying from 2-120 kPa. Granular composite structure (confocal imaging), mechanics (local and bulk), flow behavior (rheology), and printability are thoroughly assessed. Lastly, variations in the interstitial matrix chemistry (covalent vs guest-host) and microgel degradability are investigated. Overall, this study describes the influence of granular composite composition on structure and mechanical properties of granular hydrogels towards informed designs for future applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victoria G. Muir
- Department of BioengineeringSchool of Engineering and Applied SciencesUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPA19104USA
| | - Shoshana Weintraub
- Department of BioengineeringSchool of Engineering and Applied SciencesUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPA19104USA
| | - Abhishek P. Dhand
- Department of BioengineeringSchool of Engineering and Applied SciencesUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPA19104USA
| | - Hooman Fallahi
- School of Biomedical EngineeringScience and Health SystemsDrexel UniversityPhiladelphiaPA19104USA
| | - Lin Han
- School of Biomedical EngineeringScience and Health SystemsDrexel UniversityPhiladelphiaPA19104USA
| | - Jason A. Burdick
- Department of BioengineeringSchool of Engineering and Applied SciencesUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPA19104USA
- BioFrontiers InstituteUniversity of Colorado BoulderBoulderCO80303USA
- Department of Chemical and Biological EngineeringCollege of Engineering and Applied ScienceUniversity of Colorado BoulderBoulderCO80303USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Locke RC, Zlotnick HM, Stoeckl BD, Fryhofer GW, Galarraga JH, Dhand AP, Zgonis MH, Carey JL, Burdick JA, Mauck RL. Linguistic Analysis Identifies Emergent Biomaterial Fabrication Trends for Orthopaedic Applications. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2202591. [PMID: 36657736 PMCID: PMC10121863 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202202591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The expanse of publications in tissue engineering (TE) and orthopedic TE (OTE) over the past 20 years presents an opportunity to probe emergent trends in the field to better guide future technologies that can make an impact on musculoskeletal therapies. Leveraging this trove of knowledge, a hierarchical systematic search method and trend analysis using connected network mapping of key terms is developed. Within discrete time intervals, an accelerated publication rate for anatomic orthopedic tissue engineering (AOTE) of osteochondral defects, tendons, menisci, and entheses is identified. Within these growing fields, the top-listed key terms are extracted and stratified into evident categories, such as biomaterials, delivery method, or 3D printing and biofabrication. It is then identified which categories decreased, remained constant, increased, or emerged over time, identifying the specific emergent categories currently driving innovation in orthopedic repair technologies. Together, these data demonstrate a significant convergence of material types and descriptors used across tissue types. From this convergence, design criteria to support future research of anatomic constructs that mimic both the form and function of native tissues are formulated. In summary, this review identifies large-scale trends and predicts new directions in orthopedics that will define future materials and technologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ryan C. Locke
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Veterans Affairs, CMCVAMC, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Hannah M. Zlotnick
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Veterans Affairs, CMCVAMC, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Brendan D. Stoeckl
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Veterans Affairs, CMCVAMC, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - George W. Fryhofer
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Abhishek P. Dhand
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Miltiadis H. Zgonis
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - James L. Carey
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jason A. Burdick
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Robert L. Mauck
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Veterans Affairs, CMCVAMC, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Tang M, Zhong Z, Ke C. Advanced supramolecular design for direct ink writing of soft materials. Chem Soc Rev 2023; 52:1614-1649. [PMID: 36779285 DOI: 10.1039/d2cs01011a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/14/2023]
Abstract
The exciting advancements in 3D-printing of soft materials are changing the landscape of materials development and fabrication. Among various 3D-printers that are designed for soft materials fabrication, the direct ink writing (DIW) system is particularly attractive for chemists and materials scientists due to the mild fabrication conditions, compatibility with a wide range of organic and inorganic materials, and the ease of multi-materials 3D-printing. Inks for DIW need to possess suitable viscoelastic properties to allow for smooth extrusion and be self-supportive after printing, but molecularly facilitating 3D printability to functional materials remains nontrivial. While supramolecular binding motifs have been increasingly used for 3D-printing, these inks are largely optimized empirically for DIW. Hence, this review aims to establish a clear connection between the molecular understanding of the supramolecularly bound motifs and their viscoelastic properties at bulk. Herein, extrudable (but not self-supportive) and 3D-printable (self-supportive) polymeric materials that utilize noncovalent interactions, including hydrogen bonding, host-guest inclusion, metal-ligand coordination, micro-crystallization, and van der Waals interaction, have been discussed in detail. In particular, the rheological distinctions between extrudable and 3D-printable inks have been discussed from a supramolecular design perspective. Examples shown in this review also highlight the exciting macroscale functions amplified from the molecular design. Challenges associated with the hierarchical control and characterization of supramolecularly designed DIW inks are also outlined. The perspective of utilizing supramolecular binding motifs in soft materials DIW printing has been discussed. This review serves to connect researchers across disciplines to develop innovative solutions that connect top-down 3D-printing and bottom-up supramolecular design to accelerate the development of 3D-print soft materials for a sustainable future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miao Tang
- Department of Chemistry, Dartmouth College, 41 College Street, Hanover, 03755 NH, USA.
| | - Zhuoran Zhong
- Department of Chemistry, Dartmouth College, 41 College Street, Hanover, 03755 NH, USA.
| | - Chenfeng Ke
- Department of Chemistry, Dartmouth College, 41 College Street, Hanover, 03755 NH, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Farsheed AC, Thomas AJ, Pogostin BH, Hartgerink JD. 3D Printing of Self-Assembling Nanofibrous Multidomain Peptide Hydrogels. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2210378. [PMID: 36604310 PMCID: PMC10023392 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202210378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
3D printing has become one of the primary fabrication strategies used in biomedical research. Recent efforts have focused on the 3D printing of hydrogels to create structures that better replicate the mechanical properties of biological tissues. These pose a unique challenge, as soft materials are difficult to pattern in three dimensions with high fidelity. Currently, a small number of biologically derived polymers that form hydrogels are frequently reused for 3D printing applications. Thus, there exists a need for novel hydrogels with desirable biological properties that can be used as 3D printable inks. In this work, the printability of multidomain peptides (MDPs), a class of self-assembling peptides that form a nanofibrous hydrogel at low concentrations, is established. MDPs with different charge functionalities are optimized as distinct inks and are used to create complex 3D structures, including multi-MDP prints. Additionally, printed MDP constructs are used to demonstrate charge-dependent differences in cellular behavior in vitro. This work presents the first time that self-assembling peptides have been used to print layered structures with overhangs and internal porosity. Overall, MDPs are a promising new class of 3D printable inks that are uniquely peptide-based and rely solely on supramolecular mechanisms for assembly.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adam C Farsheed
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77005, USA
| | - Adam J Thomas
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77005, USA
| | - Brett H Pogostin
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77005, USA
| | - Jeffrey D Hartgerink
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77005, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77005, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Kim MH, Lin CC. Poly(ethylene glycol)-Norbornene as a Photoclick Bioink for Digital Light Processing 3D Bioprinting. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:2737-2746. [PMID: 36608274 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c20098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Digital light processing (DLP) bioprinting is an emerging technology for three-dimensional bioprinting (3DBP) owing to its high printing fidelity, fast fabrication speed, and higher printing resolution. Low-viscosity bioinks such as poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) are commonly used for DLP-based bioprinting. However, the cross-linking of PEGDA proceeds via chain-growth photopolymerization that displays significant heterogeneity in cross-linking density. In contrast, step-growth thiol-norbornene photopolymerization is not oxygen inhibited and produces hydrogels with an ideal network structure. The high cytocompatibility and rapid gelation of thiol-norbornene photopolymerization have lent itself to the cross-linking of cell-laden hydrogels but have not been extensively used for DLP bioprinting. In this study, we explored eight-arm PEG-norbornene (PEG8NB) as a bioink/resin for visible light-initiated DLP-based 3DBP. The PEG8NB-based DLP resin showed high printing fidelity and cytocompatibility even without the use of any bioactive motifs and high initial stiffness. In addition, we demonstrated the versatility of the PEGNB resin by printing solid structures as cell culture devices, hollow channels for endothelialization, and microwells for generating cell spheroids. This work not only expands the selection of bioinks for DLP-based 3DBP but also provides a platform for dynamic modification of the bioprinted constructs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Min Hee Kim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue School of Engineering & Technology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, United States
| | - Chien-Chi Lin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue School of Engineering & Technology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202, United States
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Galarraga JH, Dhand AP, Enzmann BP, Burdick JA. Synthesis, Characterization, and Digital Light Processing of a Hydrolytically Degradable Hyaluronic Acid Hydrogel. Biomacromolecules 2023; 24:413-425. [PMID: 36516973 PMCID: PMC10928645 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.2c01218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Numerous chemical modifications of hyaluronic acid (HA) have been explored for the formation of degradable hydrogels that are suitable for a variety of biomedical applications, including biofabrication and drug delivery. Thiol-ene step-growth chemistry is of particular interest due to its lower oxygen sensitivity and ability to precisely tune mechanical properties. Here, we utilize an aqueous esterification route via reaction with carbic anhydride to synthesize norbornene-modified HA (NorHACA) that is amenable to thiol-ene crosslinking to form hydrolytically unstable networks. NorHACA is first synthesized with varying degrees of modification (∼15-100%) by adjusting the ratio of reactive carbic anhydride to HA. Thereafter, NorHACA is reacted with dithiol crosslinker in the presence of visible light and photoinitiator to form hydrogels within tens of seconds. Unlike conventional NorHA, NorHACA hydrogels are highly susceptible to hydrolytic degradation through enhanced ester hydrolysis. Both the mechanical properties and the degradation timescales of NorHACA hydrogels are tuned via macromer concentration and/or the degree of modification. Moreover, the degradation behavior of NorHACA hydrogels is validated through a statistical-co-kinetic model of ester hydrolysis. The rapid degradation of NorHACA hydrogels can be adjusted by incorporating small amounts of slowly degrading NorHA macromer into the network. Further, NorHACA hydrogels are implemented as digital light processing (DLP) resins to fabricate hydrolytically degradable scaffolds with complex, macroporous structures that can incorporate cell-adhesive sites for cell attachment and proliferation after fabrication. Additionally, DLP bioprinting of NorHACA hydrogels to form cell-laden constructs with high viability is demonstrated, making them useful for applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan H. Galarraga
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Abhishek P. Dhand
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Bruce P. Enzmann
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Jason A. Burdick
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute and Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80303, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Blache U, Ford EM, Ha B, Rijns L, Chaudhuri O, Dankers PY, Kloxin AM, Snedeker JG, Gentleman E. Engineered hydrogels for mechanobiology. NATURE REVIEWS. METHODS PRIMERS 2022; 2:98. [PMID: 37461429 PMCID: PMC7614763 DOI: 10.1038/s43586-022-00179-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
Cells' local mechanical environment can be as important in guiding cellular responses as many well-characterized biochemical cues. Hydrogels that mimic the native extracellular matrix can provide these mechanical cues to encapsulated cells, allowing for the study of their impact on cellular behaviours. Moreover, by harnessing cellular responses to mechanical cues, hydrogels can be used to create tissues in vitro for regenerative medicine applications and for disease modelling. This Primer outlines the importance and challenges of creating hydrogels that mimic the mechanical and biological properties of the native extracellular matrix. The design of hydrogels for mechanobiology studies is discussed, including appropriate choice of cross-linking chemistry and strategies to tailor hydrogel mechanical cues. Techniques for characterizing hydrogels are explained, highlighting methods used to analyze cell behaviour. Example applications for studying fundamental mechanobiological processes and regenerative therapies are provided, along with a discussion of the limitations of hydrogels as mimetics of the native extracellular matrix. The article ends with an outlook for the field, focusing on emerging technologies that will enable new insights into mechanobiology and its role in tissue homeostasis and disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich Blache
- Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology and Fraunhofer Cluster of Excellence for Immune-Mediated Disease, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Eden M. Ford
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, DE, USA
| | - Byunghang Ha
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Stanford University, CA, USA
| | - Laura Rijns
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Eindhoven University of Technology, PO Box 513, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Ovijit Chaudhuri
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Stanford University, CA, USA
| | - Patricia Y.W. Dankers
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Eindhoven University of Technology, PO Box 513, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - April M. Kloxin
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, DE, USA
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, University of Delaware, DE, USA
| | - Jess G. Snedeker
- University Hospital Balgrist and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Eileen Gentleman
- Centre for Craniofacial and Regenerative Biology, King’s College London, London SE1 9RT, UK
| |
Collapse
|