Testing of unique 3D-printed pancreatic tissues to confirm appropriate insulin-releasing function for the regulation of blood glucose in diabetes

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Insulin replacement by implant of differentiated stem cells is a promising approach to treat diabetes, and is now**being tested clinically, including here in Vancouver. Initial findings from the clinical testing indicate that**improvements are required to improve graft vascularization, survival and function. Vancouver-based Aspect**Biosystems Ltd has developed cell bioprinting technology that may be able to address these limitations. Thus,**the goal of this project is to assess the survival and function of novel bioprinted 3D tissue containing human**embryonic stem cells (hESCs) differentiated toward insulin-producing cells. This work will expand on the first**phase of the project, previously funded by the NSERC Engage program, in which we collaborated with Aspect**to assess and optimize the viability of undifferentiated hESCs in bioprinted tissue. Based upon our progress, we**can now optimize the 3D pancreas tissue to determine which composition best supports cell viability and**function of differentiated hESCs. In vitro function of bioprinted cells will be assessed by measuring insulin**secretion in response to nutrients and beta cell secretagogues in a dynamic perifusion apparatus. Further testing**will be conducted in immunodeficient, diabetic rats to determine whether the bioprinted tissue is able to**reverse diabetes and restore control of glucose regulation. The Kieffer lab will provide Aspect with human ES**cells that have been differentiated toward insulin-producing cells. These cells will be bioprinted by Aspect into**living biocompatible 3D structures using Aspect's unique alginate/collagen bioink. The project will provide an**excellent training opportunity for students in cutting edge biomedical engineering at the interface of academia**and industry, and could lead to substantial investments in follow-up research and development.