Melt electrowrite system for biofabrication of complex engineered tissues

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Our interdisciplinary team of engineers and scientists is at the forefront of of biomaterials and tissue engineering research that promises to deliver living tissue replacements and advanced lab models for drug discovery. However, this promise can only be realized if engineered tissues replicate the structural, compositional, and mechanical complexity of their native counterparts they seek to replace. To this end, recent advances in bioprinting methods and devices are making fabrication of complex biomimetic tissues a reality. However, we currently do not have access to the the state-of-the-art bioprinters we need to create complex tissues. This has slowed our progress and stifles translation of our discoveries and inventions, limiting their impact and value. In this proposal, we request a versatile bioprinter to address this urgent need. This system will enable multiple print modes, including melt electrowriting (MEW) alone or in combination with 3D hydrogel bioprinting. MEW is not available on any bioprinter in Toronto, and the fully integrated capabilities of the requested printer will be unique in Canada. This system will enable us to engineer complex multicellular, multimaterial functional tissues with biomimetic mechanical properties, with initial applications in heart valve, intervertebral disc, blood vessel, heart muscle, and airway tissue engineering. Dozens of trainees will receive expert technical training on this equipment, gaining interdisciplinary expertise in bioprinting, biomaterial science, mechanical testing, tissue engineering, and related applications that will prepare them to contribute to rapidly growing industries in Canada, including biotechnology, medical devices, and regenerative medicine.