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Bioprinting meniscus implants harnessing microfluidic biofabrication technology to pattern density gradient porosity and biologics
Abstract

Meniscal repair is still unchallenged, as the clinical practice uses grafts that are neither functional nor bioactive in repairing the damaged tissue. Typically, torn meniscus can be repaired arthroscopically, but major lesions (wear and tear) with a continuous deterioration of the tissue quality, mainly associated with ageing, represent a major challenge for clinical repair. Moreover, the complete loss or removal of the meniscus will cause arthritis, leaving the clinicians with limited options for the meniscus repair. Currently, meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT) following meniscectomy is the preferrable solution. However, implant rejection and inflammation are major inevitable risks. There is an unmet clinical need for a new implantable solution to (i) sustain the local mechanical displacement and forces, (ii) integrate with the surrounding microenvironment, while (iii) supporting the active repair guiding the ingrowth of blood vessels. Herein, we propose the Bioprinting of stem cells to generate meniscus implants harnessing microfluidic biofabrication technology to pattern density gradient porosity and biologics (BUBBLES). To recapitulate the (i) mechanical and (ii) vascular heterogeneity of the meniscus, we will be exploring a novel bioprinting approach to compartmentalise the deposition of pores, biologics and living cells.

Project information
BUBBLES logo
Acronym
BUBBLES
Start date
01/05/2023
End date
30/04/2024
Role
Coordinator
Funds
Foundation
People involved
Gianluca Cidonio
Gianluca Cidonio
Nanotechnologies for Neurosciences
Budget
Total budget: 10.147,00€
Total contribution: 10.147,00€