Efforts to develop small-diameter blood vessel grafts for biomedical use have faced significant challenges due to the limited availability of vascular autografts and artificial alternatives. Traditional materials like polylactic acid (PLA), commonly used in 3D printing, lack the required flexibility and porosity to support efficient blood flow and nutrient exchange. Researchers at George Washington University have pioneered a new method to address this gap. They print the outer layer of the blood vessel using a rubber-like elastomer and then remove the polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) component, creating a scaffold with enhanced elasticity.
The process involves forming an initial inner layer of smooth muscle cells (iSMCs) derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). These cells are extruded with thrombin to form a gel. A second layer, made up of endothelial cells (iECs), is then created to form another gel. The resulting blood vessels are highly elastic and porous—critical features that enable proper blood flow and pressure regulation, as well as the diffusion of oxygen and nutrients to surrounding tissues. This innovative approach promises to advance the development of more effective and functional artificial blood vessels for a wide range of medical applications.
Figure 1. Illustration of 3D printing and creating the flexible multilayer blood vessel.
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