Multi-Tissue Integrated Tissue-Engineered Trachea Regeneration Based on 3D Printed Bioelastomer Scaffolds

Adv Sci (Weinh). 2024 Oct;11(39):e2405420. doi: 10.1002/advs.202405420. Epub 2024 Aug 19.

Abstract

Functional segmental trachea reconstruction is a critical concern in thoracic surgery, and tissue-engineered trachea (TET) holds promise as a potential solution. However, current TET falls short in fully restoring physiological function due to the lack of the intricate multi-tissue structure found in natural trachea. In this research, a multi-tissue integrated tissue-engineered trachea (MI-TET) is successfully developed by orderly assembling various cells (chondrocytes, fibroblasts and epithelial cells) on 3D-printed PGS bioelastomer scaffolds. The MI-TET closely resembles the complex structures of natural trachea and achieves the integrated regeneration of four essential tracheal components: C-shaped cartilage ring, O-shaped vascularized fiber ring, axial fiber bundle, and airway epithelium. Overall, the MI-TET demonstrates highly similar multi-tissue structures and physiological functions to natural trachea, showing promise for future clinical advancements in functional TETs.

Keywords: 3D printing; bioelastomer; cartilage; tissue engineering; trachea regeneration.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Printing, Three-Dimensional*
  • Regeneration* / physiology
  • Tissue Engineering* / methods
  • Tissue Scaffolds* / chemistry
  • Trachea* / physiology
  • Trachea* / surgery