3D Bioprinting Full Thickness Skin Models

This project aims to apply novel techniques in 3D-Bioprinting to tissue engineer full-thickness skin models. Investigations will take place on different biopolymer components of extracellular matrix as suitable bioinks for the different layers of the skin that can be 3D-printed to have the dimensions and mechanical properties that mimic the various layers of skin tissue. Once the materials have been fully characterised, adipose tissue derived mesenchymal stem cells, dermal fibroblasts and keratinocytes will be cultured in the appropriate layers of the 3D printed structures and assessed for viability and phenotypic expression. Following mechanical and biological optimisation of the 3D-Bioprinted skin like structures, functionality tests will be undertaken to assess drug delivery into bioprinted construct and compared with ex-vivo skin. The overall goal is to develop 3D-bioprinted structures that have characteristics similar to that of native skin and can ultimately be used for preclinical drug investigations so that drugs or drug formulations can be assessed more rapidly and without the use of animal tissue. In addition, further applications are also envisaged. We will also explore for instance, the potential for use as tissue engineered wound dressings or as a skin wound models.