Design and development of hydroxyapatite based chitosan/collagen graft using 3d bioprinting method for natural bone regeneration in tissue engineering applications

Bone tissue regeneration and the engineering of new tissues stand out as one of the most critical research areas in modern medicine. Therefore, the thesis developed based on this research area aims to design and develop innovative bio-composite grafts made from biodegradable and naturally biocompatible materials as new bones. The study aims to introduce patient-specific graft production with the aid of 3D printing, in contrast to traditional grafting methods. This study focuses on efforts to ensure the integration of grafts with surrounding tissues. The material selection and scaffold structure have been optimized both mechanically and biologically. The surface morphology, mechanical strength, and biological activity of the produced chitosan/collagen-based hydroxyapatite grafts were evaluated through analyses. In addition, tests on the printing of chitosan and collagen-based materials with different molecular structures on two sides, which have considerable levels of biocompatibility in our experiments, emphasized their effectiveness in dental regeneration in alveolar bone structure and gingiva formation. The originality of this project lies in the ability to produce patient-based customized, designed porous grafts of the biocompatible materials using 3D printing technology and nanomaterials, according to the needs of patients. In this way, the grafts can fully perform the function of natural bone in the body and accelerate the healing process in clinical applications. In conclusion, it is predicted that the new graft materials and designs developed in this thesis will make significant contributions to the field of bone regeneration and form a solid foundation for future treatment methods.