3D bioprinting involves creating artificial tissue structures that are needed to research treatment methods for diseases or injuries in patients. This is done using hydrogel-based bioinks into which cells are integrated. To print them as organic objects, the biomaterials must be reinforced with UV light or chemical processes. So far, it's been a challenge to get nutrients into printed objects. Hydrogels have properties similar to an extracellular matrix, but they have a diffusion limit of a few hundred micrometers.

Therefore, researchers have recently started using a process called electrospinning, which allows them to produce ultra-thin fibers with a diameter of 5–10 micrometers. The start-up Black Drop Biodrucker GmbH, based in Aachen, was significantly involved in the development. The fibers are integrated into the bioink, improving the transport of nutrients within the miniature tissue. At the same time, fiber integration contributes to improving the mechanical properties of bioinks.

In future, such improved bioinks could be used, for example, to produce tissue models for pharmaceutical research. This method would also be suitable for the production of cultured meat.

Original publication:
A Neuhäusler, K Rogg, S Schröder, D Spiehl, H Zora, E Arefaine, J Schettler, H Hartmann and A Blaeser: Electrospun microfibers to enhance nutrient supply in bioinks and 3D-bioprinted tissue precursors, in: Biofabrication 17 015038, DOI: https://doi.org/10.1088/1758-5090/ad9d7a

Sources:
https://www.tu-darmstadt.de/universitaet/aktuelles_meldungen/archiv_2/2025/2025quartal2/newsdetails_502400.de.jsp
https://thebioprinting.com/