Optimization of a bioink printing process with three-dimensionalbioprinting technology

This thesis aims to develop, produce, and evaluate biofunctional scaffold structures using cell-based bioink using three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting technology. The primary objective of the study is to utilize Type I collagen isolated from various biological sources as the primary biomaterial in bioink formulations and to transform it into highly biocompatible, cell-supported three-dimensional structures for tissue engineering applications. Previously isolated and characterized Type I collagen and a commercial alginate product were combined with the human osteosarcoma cell line (MG-63) for cell-based bioink production. By optimizing the viscosity, fluidity, and printing parameters of the composite material, scaffold structures with regular porosity were printed using a 3D bioprinter. The resulting structures were stabilized by cross-linking with Genipin and calcium chloride (CaCl₂) to increase mechanical and structural strength. Cell viability, cytotoxicity tests, and cell morphology analyses were performed on the printed scaffolds. Cell morphology and proliferation analyses determined that cross-linked scaffolds preserved cell survival and supported surface adhesion and proliferation of MG-63 cells. The results demonstrate that the developed collagen-based bioinks provide biocompatible, mechanically stable structures that support tissue regeneration. This study significantly contributes to the development of innovative bioink designs for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications using 3D bioprinting processes performed under sterile conditions.