3D Bio-printed Vascular Networks for Nutrient Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for constructing biological systems for nutrient and gas exchange at the microscale are limited by their two-dimensional structures, which hinder efficient component exchange and control of fluid dynamics, leading to suboptimal performance in processes like filtration and tissue circulatory homeostasis.
Innovation Solution
A method for generating three-dimensional (3D) biological structures using computer-processed models to create complex vascular networks with tunable surface area to volume ratios, allowing for precise control of oxygen and nutrient distribution and waste removal, utilizing multi-photon printing technology to form cell-containing matrices with specific cell types and polymer precursors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If two-dimensional structures are used for constructing biological systems, then the construction method is simple, but the efficiency of component exchange and fluid dynamics control is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional structures to three-dimensional printed biological structures, enabling complex spatial arrangements of vessels and subunits that improve nutrient and gas exchange efficiency while maintaining manufacturability through additive manufacturing technologies
2Ease of manufacture
If highly uniform stacked structures are used, then the manufacturing process is standardized, but the control of surface area to volume ratios and fluid dynamics is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables spatially varying properties within the biological structure, allowing different regions to have optimized surface area to volume ratios and vessel densities tailored to specific functional requirements, while maintaining overall structural coherence through standardized manufacturing protocols
3Device complexity
If random deposition of tubes and structures is used, then the structural complexity is high, but the control of feature size and flow dynamics is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs computer-aided design and computational modeling to pre-plan the three-dimensional architecture of biological structures before manufacturing, enabling precise control of feature sizes, vessel diameters, and spatial arrangements while achieving the structural complexity needed for efficient nutrient and gas exchange
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The 3D structures enhance the efficiency and specificity of nutrient and gas exchange, maintaining tissue circulatory homeostasis and enabling the creation of complex tissue structures with improved diffusion and fluid dynamic control, suitable for applications in tissue engineering and bioreactors.
Implementation Method 1
directing at least one energy beam to the medium in the media chamber along at least one energy beam path that is patterned into a three-dimensional (3D) projection in accordance with computer instructions for printing the 3D biological material in computer memory, to subject at least a portion of the polymer precursors to form at least a portion of the 3D biological material
Data Source
AI summary
Provided herein are methods and systems for bio-printing of three-dimensional cell-containing matrixes. Further, provided herein are methods and systems for generating a three-dimensional (3D) structure corresponding to a biological material, such as a kidney or lung comprising either nephron or alveolar structures. Also provided herein are bio-printed three-dimensional matrices for use in the generation nephron and/or alveolar structures.