Novel peptide-based hydrogels hold great promise for tissue engineering applications
Tissue-engineering scaffolds built around ultrashort peptides provide a new platform for studying bone regeneration in the lab.
The peptides developed at KAUST self-assemble into a cartilage-like hydrogel that mimics the natural matrix that underpins bone formation in the body. Its physiologically relevant properties enable this cell-friendly biomaterial to support the growth and development of bone marrow precursor cells. It also enables tubular blood vessels to take shape, which is a critical part of bone health and repair.
Our system is a simple, efficient and robust model that closely resembles the complex architecture of native bone tissue. Using these peptide-based hydrogels, we can now build 3D disease models for tissue engineering, biomedical research and drug testing.
Skeletal scaffold supports bone cells and blood vessels
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Ultrashort peptides go a long way for tissue engineering
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Bioprinting technique holds shape and stimulates cell growth
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New bioprinting process uses ultrashort peptides to print hydrogel scaffolds
A new automated process prints a peptide-based hydrogel scaffold containing uniformly distributed cells. The scaffolds hold their shapes well and successfully facilitate cell growth that lasts for weeks. Bioprinting 3D printing that incorporates living cells has the potential to revolutionize tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Scientists have experimented with natural and synthetic bioinks to print out scaffolds that hold cells in place as they grow and form a tissue with a specific shape. But there are challenges with cell survival.
Natural bioinks, such as gelatin and collagen, need to be treated with chemicals or ultraviolet light to hold their shape, which affects the cell viability. The synthetic polymer hydrogels tested to date also require the use of harsh chemicals and conditions that threaten cell survival.