Available 3D-printed Biomolecule-Loaded Alginate-Based Scaffolds for Cartilage Tissue Engineering Applications: A Review on Current Status and Future Prospective

Document Type : CURRENT CONCEPTS REVIEW

Authors

1 Faculty of New Sciences and Technologies, Department of Biotechnology , Semnan University, Semnan, Iran

2 Faculty of Materials and Metallurgical Engineering, Semnan University, Semnan, Iran

3 3 Bone and Joint Research laboratory, Ghaem Hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran 4 Orthopedic Research Center, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran

4 Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran

5 Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Babol University of Medical Science, Babol, Iran

6 4 Orthopedic Research Center, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran- 7 Clinical Research Development Unit, Ghaem Hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences (MUMS), Mashhad, Iran

Abstract

Osteoarthritis (OA) can arise from various factor including trauma, overuse, as well as degeneration 
resulting from age or disease. The specific treatment options will vary based on the severity of the 
condition, and the affected joints. Some common treatments for OA include lifestyle modifications, 
medications, physical therapy, surgery and tissue engineering (TE). For cartilage tissue engineering 
(CTE), three-dimension (3D) scaffolds are made of biocompatible natural polymers, which allow for 
the regeneration of new cartilage tissue. An ideal scaffold should possess biological and mechanical 
properties that closely resemble those of the cartilage tissue, and lead to improved functional of knee. 
These scaffolds are specifically engineered to serve as replacements for damaged and provide 
support to the knee joint. 3D-bioprinted scaffolds are made of biocompatible materials natural 
polymers, which allow for the regeneration of new cartilage. The utilization of 3D bioprinting method 
has emerged as a novel approach for fabricating scaffolds with optimal properties for CTE 
applications. This method enables the creation of scaffolds that closely mimic the native cartilage in 
terms of mechanical characteristics and biological functionality. 
Alginate, that has the capability to fabricate a cartilage replacement customized for each individual 
patient. This polymer exhibits hydrophilicity, biocompatibility, and biodegradability, along with shear -
thinning properties. These unique properties enable alginate to be utilized as a bio-ink for 3D bioprinting 
method. Furthermore, chondrogenesis is the complex process through which cartilage is formed via a 
series of cellular and molecular signaling. Signaling pathway is as a fundamental mechanism in cart ilage 
formation, enhanced by the incorporation of biomolecules and growth factors that induce the 
differentiation of stem cells. Accordingly, ongoing review is focusing to promote of 3D bioprinting scaffolds 
through the utilization of advanced biomolecules-loading of alginate-based that has the capability to 
fabricate a cartilage replacement tailored specifically to each patient's unique needs and anatomical 
requirements. 
Level of evidence: III

Keywords

Main Subjects

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The Archives of Bone and Joint Surgery
Volume 12, Issue 2
February 2024
Pages 92-101

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History

  • Receive Date: 25 June 2023
  • Revise Date: 03 September 2023
  • Accept Date: 11 November 2023

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