Brown University engineers have developed a groundbreaking 3D printing technology that enables the creation of biomaterials capable of "degrading on demand." This innovative material can be used to fabricate complex microfluidic devices or dynamic cell cultures, offering new possibilities in biomedical engineering. The degradation is triggered by specific chemical reactions, allowing for precise control over when and how the material breaks down.
To achieve this, the researchers employed a stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing technique, which allowed them to create structures with reversible ionic bonds. This is the first time SLA printers have been used for such a purpose. To develop the material, they used alginate—a natural polymer derived from seaweed—known for its ability to form ion-crosslinked networks.
By varying the types of ionic salts, such as magnesium, barium, and calcium, the team was able to produce 3D printed objects with different levels of stiffness. This stiffness directly affects how quickly the structure dissolves. As one researcher explained, "When ions are removed, the polymer connections break. By using a chelating agent to trap the ions, we can initiate the degradation process."
This technology has a wide range of potential applications. One key use is in creating microfluidic devices for lab-on-a-chip systems. For example, alginate can be printed as a temporary template, then dissolved to leave behind hollow channels without the need for cutting or assembly. This simplifies the manufacturing of intricate fluidic systems.
Additionally, the method can be used to create dynamic environments for live cell experiments. In one test, human breast cells were grown around an alginate barrier. When the barrier dissolved, the cells moved in a controlled way, mimicking real biological processes. This could aid cancer research and the development of artificial tissues and organs.
The non-toxic nature of alginate makes it ideal for such applications. Researchers envision using it to create vascular-like structures in artificial tissues, where alginate could act as a temporary scaffold before being dissolved to form blood vessel-like channels.
Looking ahead, the team aims to refine the process to better control the material's mechanical properties and degradation rate. Their findings were recently published in *Lab on a Chip*, highlighting the significance of their work in advancing 3D bioprinting and regenerative medicine.
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