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2022, Vol. 26 ›› Issue (3): 446-455Application of 4D bioprinting in tissue engineeringGuan Jian1, 2, Jia Yanfei2, Zhang Baoxin 2, Zhao Guozhong1, 2
Abstract: BACKGROUND: 3D bioprinting has become a crucial research field of tissue engineering with the unceasing development of science and technology. Nevertheless, some limitations cannot be resolved. 4D bioprinting is the most emerging technology, and has become the major solution for the next generation of tissue engineering. OBJECTIVE: To introduce the materials and methods of 4D bioprinting in accordance with various shape transformation principles, and to explore the application of 4D bioprinting to tissue engineering and the current challenges. METHODS: “4D bioprinting, 4D biofabriation, printing, smart materials, smart scaffold, shape memory polymers, tissue engineering” in Chinese and English were utilized as search terms. A total of 127 related articles published from January 1, 2016 to January 1, 2021 were retrieved from CNKI, PubMed, and SCIE databases. After screening out by the first author and adding high-quality references, 106 articles were included for review. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) 4D bioprinting, the latest emerging technology, combines the concept of time with 3D bioprinting as the fourth dimension. 4D bioprinting can create complex and functional structures. (2) 4D bioprinting can make dynamic 3D biological structures by using smart materials. These structures can alter shape under various stimuli. (3) The functional transformation and maturation of printed cell structures are also considered a form of 4D bioprinting. (4) This technology provides an unprecedented potential for tissue engineering. In the field of biomedicine, although this technology has attracted great attention, more research and development are needed to realize clinical application, because it is still in the emerging stage. Key words:4D bioprinting, 4D biomanufacturing, printing, smart materials, smart scaffolds, shape memory polymers, tissue engineering, review |