Two algae strains, Odontella aurita and Tetraselmis striata, were selected as suitable for the study. The researchers extracted mainly triglycerides with chlorophyll derivatives from the microalgae and functionalized the extrate by means of photopolymerizable groups (acrylate). The mixture was then used as a printing ink. In direct contact with living cells/tissues, the 3D-printed materials have no negative impact on their metabolism - they are biocompatible.

In future, the microalgae-based materials could serve as the basis for implants or scaffolds for 3D cell culture.
Grafic: computer-generated.

Original publication:
Vazquez-Martel C, Florido Martins L, Genthner E, Almeida C, Martel Quintana A, Bastmeyer M, Gómez Pinchetti JL, Blasco E. Printing Green: Microalgae-Based Materials for 3D Printing with Light. Adv Mater. 2024 Aug;36(33):e2402786. doi: 10.1002/adma.202402786. Epub 2024 Jun 22. PMID: 38876261.

Further information:
https://www.bionity.com/de/news/1184196/3d-laserdruck-mit-biotinten-aus-mikroalgen.html?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=bionityde--2024-08-19--1&mtm_group=bionityde&WT.mc_id=ca0264