Biofabrication by magnetic levitational assembly of cells into defined 3D cellular structures

Abstract

In the field of tissue engineering 3D (three dimensional) cell culture studies have increased over the years since they are the closest models of real tissues. Compared to the 2D models, there is a big improvement on cell growth, morphology, differentiation, gene and protein expression when 3D system is utilized. Because of these advantages 3D cell culture is commonly used for tissue engineering, artificial organ technologies, regenerative medicine, drug development, drug screening and stem cell studies. Despite promising advances in these areas, there are still unmet needs to completely fulfill all requirements. Sophisticated tools, methodologies and materials are still required for further development in tissue engineering; especially for cellular assembly, single cell level control, easy control over biofabrication system, direct forward cellular imaging and analysis. Recently, magnetic levitation technology that overcomes most of the above mentioned problems, has been utilized for the formation of 3D cellular structures. Magnetic levitational assembly of cells provide rapid, simple, cost-effective 3D cell culture formation while ensuring scaffold-free microenvironment.