Hybrid 3D Printed Bioink for Chronic Wound Regeneration

Chronic wounds face significant obstacles during the natural healing process. Current treatment options, such as autologous skin grafts, are often limited in availability and may not fully address the complex needs of these wounds. To overcome these limitations, we developed a novel wound dressing utilizing a 3D Printed hybrid bioink. This approach leverages the versatility of synthetic biomaterials to create a scaffold that integrates with the wound bed and can be tailored to patient-specific requirements using 3D printing.<br/><br/>The use of synthetic polymers as components of the bioink offers precise control over the mechanical properties and elasticity of the graft, ensuring optimal handling and performance. Moreover, the scaffold can be incorporated with autologous or allogeneic adipose tissue to create a hybrid bioink that could potentially enhance biocompatibility. These bioinks can be 3D printed into scaffolds, providing a supportive structure for tissue regeneration. Further, control over the structure and porosity of the material could enhance the healing process by promoting cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and extracellular matrix deposition. Lastly, the scaffold's architecture can be customized to match the specific requirements of different chronic wound types, enabling a personalized approach to wound care.<br/><br/>In the current study, an in vivo full thickness skin defect model demonstrates the efficacy of this 3D-printed wound dressing to accelerate wound closure and improve healing outcomes. While further research is needed to optimize material properties and healing strategies, this innovative approach holds promise for revolutionizing the treatment of challenging wounds and improving patient outcomes.