Animal-free Osteochondral Solution: Engineering Tomorrow’s Joints
Channel: General ideas and needs in the field of additive manufacturing
Osteochondral defects affecting both cartilage and underlying bone, present substantial challenges in orthopedic surgery, often leading to compromised joint function and persistent pain. Current treatment modalities frequently fail to restore the intricate structure and functionality of native tissue fully, and they usually utilize animal-derived biomaterials. These biomaterials are derived often from either bovine or porcine sources which lead to graft rejection, elicit immune response and have batch-to-batch variability. To address this critical clinical need, we propose a novel approach utilizing animal-free bioprinting materials to address osteochondral defects. The aim of this feasibility project is to develop animal-free 3D bioprinted osteochondral plugs (biphasic constructs) tailored to individual patient needs.
The project’s objectives are twofold: firstly, to use animal-free biomaterials (corn-based PLA derivative and fermentation-based collagen) to create 3D-printed osteochondral constructs with precise architecture and composition, and secondly, to access the cell viability and regeneration potential of both cartilage and bone tissues within the plugs. Through meticulous design and 3D bioprinting optimization strategies, the project will concentrate on achieving biphasic scaffold structures closely resembling native osteochondral tissue.
By leveraging animal-free biomimetic biomaterials, our overarching vision is to fabricate osteochondral plugs that promote tissue regeneration, enhance joint function, and alleviate pain. These animal-free biphasic 3D bioprinted osteochondral plugs might have the potential to improve patient outcomes while reducing the environmental impact of treatment.
