3D bioprinted chondrogenic gelatin methacrylate-poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate composite scaffolds for intervertebral disc restoration

Abstract Degenerative spine pathologies, including intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration, present a significant healthcare challenge due to their association with chronic pain and disability. This study explores an innovative approach to IVD regeneration utilizing 3D bioprinting technology, specifically visible light-based digital light processing, to fabricate tissue scaffolds that closely mimic the native architecture of the IVD. Utilizing a hybrid bioink composed of gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) and poly (ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) at a 10% concentration, we achieved enhanced printing fidelity and mechanical properties suitable for load-bearing applications such as the IVD. Preconditioning rat bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell spheroids with chondrogenic media before incorporating them into the GelMA-PEGDA scaffold further promoted the regenerative capabilities of this system. Our findings demonstrate that this bioprinted scaffold not only supports cell viability and integration but also contributes to the restoration of disc height in a rat caudal disc model without inducing adverse inflammatory responses. The study underscores the potential of combining advanced bioprinting techniques and cell preconditioning strategies to develop effective treatments for IVD degeneration and other musculoskeletal disorders, highlighting the need for further research into the dynamic interplay between cellular migration and the hydrogel matrix.