| Description |
To address the current need for engineered tissues and organs, we have developed new hyaluronic acid (HA) and gelatin-based biomaterials for implementation within bioprinting and rotational bioreactor frameworks. By using creative modification, combination, and engineering strategies, we have been able to add novel properties and functionality to these derivatives. Based on the original thiol-functionalized HA hydrogels developed in our laboratory, we have branched out to further modify hydrogels using new chemistries and crosslinkers. Different crosslinkers, such as a 4-armed PEG crosslinker and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), as well as a methacrylated HA derivatives, alter the gelation characteristics and mechanical properties of the hydrogels, which have been characterized by rheology. These hydrogels have properties that make them more suitable for bioprinting applications, in which the mechanical properties determine ease of material deposition into 3-D physiologically-relevant organizations. Additionally, these materials show good biocompatibility, making them appropriate for cell-loaded printing and tissue culture. |
