| Abstract Scope |
Global human deaths from hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) rise significantly each year. To study liver disease progression and anticancer drug effectiveness, liver models, including 2D cell culture, 3D organoids and microfluidics-built devices, are developed. But these models have limitations when it comes to accurately reproducing the intricate architecture and functionality of liver. In developing in vitro HCC models, 3D bioprinting emerges as a highly promising approach. In this study, an HCC model was created via embedded 3D printing of ECM-mimicking bioinks. For this printing, the gelatin support bath with different microgel sizes was prepared. ECM-mimicking ink was a PBS-based solution of collagen I, fibrinogen, hyaluronic acid and BSA, with added HEPES buffer. By incorporating HCC cells and endothelial cells in ECM-mimicking ink, cell viability, phenotype and EC distribution within bioprinted vascularized HCC-laden constructs were investigated. Furthermore, biological characteristics of bioprinted HCC model were assessed, including tumor markers, cell migration, etc. |