Beyond 2D: 3D bioprinting for skin regeneration

Int Wound J. 2019 Feb;16(1):134-138. doi: 10.1111/iwj.13003. Epub 2018 Sep 21.

Abstract

Essential cellular functions that are present in tissues are missed by two-dimensional (2D) cell monolayer culture. It certainly limits their potential to predict the cellular responses of real organisms. Engineering approaches offer solutions to overcome current limitations. For example, establishing a three-dimensional (3D)-based matrix is motivated by the need to mimic the functions of living tissues, which will have a strong impact on regenerative medicine. However, as a novel approach, it requires the development of new standard protocols to increase the efficiency of clinical translation. In this review, we summarised the various aspects of requirements related to well-suited 3D bioprinting techniques for skin regeneration and discussed how to overcome current bottlenecks and propel these therapies into the clinic.

Keywords: 3D bioprinting; extracellular matrices; skin regeneration.

MeSH terms

  • Bioprinting / methods*
  • Cell Culture Techniques*
  • Humans
  • Printing, Three-Dimensional*
  • Regeneration / physiology*
  • Regenerative Medicine / methods*
  • Skin / growth & development*
  • Tissue Engineering / methods*