3D bioprinting of cortical constructs utilising photo-click hydrogels: toward a functional in vitro model

Current extrusion-based biofabrication strategies and bioinks are insufficient to recapitulate the form and function of neuronal tissues and remain limited in scope. A gelatin-based biopolymer ink was developed and optimised as the cell carrier for rat primary cortical neurons. 3D bioprinting with the optimised bioink generated soft, self-supporting neural tissue constructs and without the incorporation of stiffer materials that could impact cell organisation and fate. Robust three-dimensional axonal outgrowth, network formation and functionality were demonstrated. These 3D neuronal tissue constructs have great potential for applications in neurological drug screening and injury models.