Developing Hydrogel Based 3D Hybrid Structures for Skin Implants

The skin serves as the first line of defense, having a complex multi-layered structure. It is the most vulnerable to injury; therefore, there is a need for prompt and reliable skin regeneration methods. Tissue scaffold substitutes have a distinguishing advantage when pursuing biomimetic tissue. This research program describes the fabrication of novel tissue scaffolds based on a synthetic FDA approved polymer and bioinspired inks such as keratin and melanin. These are engineered into multi-layer skin architecture, conforming to native skin structure. Harnessing two additive manufacture techniques, 3D cryo printing, and inkjet printing, allow the formation of one cohesive semisynthetic system that will function as a vivid tissue. Due to the manufacturing techniques, the scaffolds can be custom made, resulting in tunable geometry, porosity, moisture barrier, and mechanical properties.

In this study, we are focusing on a two-step process — first, 3D cryo printing of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) that contributes to the main scaffold structure. Second, inkjet printing of bio-inks in order to impart texture, pigment, and skin-like features. Together, these components comprise a semisynthetic bioinspired tissue scaffold. The combination of the cryo printed PVA, and the inkjet printing contributes further control of mechanical properties, morphology, and pigmentation. Furthermore, the research relies on nontoxic processes and water-based materials in order to achieve excellent compatibility, fast regulation, and tissue integration.