Synergistic Physical and Chemical Cues Enhance Cellularization in Compartmentalized Microchannel Fibers Supplemented with Mesoporous Bioactive Glass Nanoparticles

The internal cellularization of thick tissue scaffolds remains a significant challenge in tissue engineering, often requiring costly and complex technologies. In this study, we developed a cost-effective, chaotic printing approach to fabricate compartmentalized hydrogel filaments that integrate physical and chemical cues. The physical cues, provided by hollow microchannels, enhance mass transport and nutrient exchange, while the chemical cues, delivered by mesoporous bioactive glass (BG) nanoparticles, facilitate sustained ion release, which can potentially support angiogenesis and cell migration. Characterization of the filaments demonstrated their structural integrity, controlled ion diffusion, and biocompatibility. In an ex ovo chick embryo model, the scaffolds supported cellularization and showed indications of promoting vascularization. This platform represents a promising step toward the development of functional scaffolds for applications in wound healing, in vitro models, and small tissue unit transplantation.