Development of 3D Microvascular Networks Within Gelatin Hydrogels Using Thermoresponsive Sacrificial Microfibers

Adv Healthc Mater. 2016 Apr 6;5(7):781-5. doi: 10.1002/adhm.201500792. Epub 2016 Feb 4.

Abstract

A 3D microvascularized gelatin hydrogel is produced using thermoresponsive sacrificial poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) microfibers. The capillary-like microvascular network allows constant perfusion of media throughout the thick hydrogel, and significantly improves the viability of human neonatal dermal fibroblasts encapsulated within the gel at a high density.

Keywords: artificial vasculature; gelatin hydrogel; microfibers; poly(N-isopropylacrylamide); tissue engineering.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Acrylic Resins / pharmacology
  • Dermis / cytology
  • Fibroblasts / cytology
  • Fibroblasts / drug effects
  • Gelatin / pharmacology*
  • Humans
  • Hydrogels / pharmacology*
  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Microscopy, Confocal
  • Microvessels / drug effects*
  • Perfusion
  • Temperature*

Substances

  • Acrylic Resins
  • Hydrogels
  • poly-N-isopropylacrylamide
  • Gelatin