Multi-functional hybrid tissue scaffolds

3D tissue scaffolds serve as a structural frame to support and guide biological cells in tissue regeneration. Scaffolds function as a temporary structure whereupon cells can attach, grow, differentiate and proliferate. They are designed to degenerate as soon as the new tissue can sustain its own structure and able to grow by itself. Biomaterials can affect structural strength of the scaffold significantly that mediates cell activities upon seeding. Tissue scaffolds in the literature have been fabricated homogenously in their domain in terms of porosity and stiffness. But, in fact natural organs and tissues have functional gradients to satisfy multiple functions. In this paper, a pressure assisted multi-head deposition system is used to print 3D scaffolds with heterogeneous material composition. Biomaterials with different mechanical properties are used to design and manufacture the gradient stiffness. The system has the potential to be increasingly influential in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine in several applications such as drug release, wound devices, cochlear implants and organ printing.