Development of a 3D-bioprinter for the production of living tissues and organs : design of an extrusion-based printing head mounted on a Leapfrog Creatr HS printer

Researchers at UCLouvain showed an interest in the use of 3D bioprinting. This technology, much like 3D printing, allows to print three-dimensional struc- tures but with the ability to print biological substances. The development of an affordable bioprinter has been demanded to achieve both the fabrication of 3D structures embedded with cells of marine sponges and to achieve precise deposition of nanoparticles on electronic sensors. The identification of the needs of the clients, along with a thorough study of the state of the art, allowed to establish a list of technical requirements. These specifications set general directions for the design process. The time constraint led to the development of a prototype of printhead mounted on the frame of a Leapfrog Creatr HS printer. The printhead relies on an extrusion- based system working with standard Luer lock syringes. It also features a heating system to ensure viability of cells and accommodate the use of temperature-sensitive biomaterials. The design suits the use of multiple printheads and its modularity makes it easy to adapt for a different frame. The printing tests conducted with a 1% agarose solution highlighted limitations and issues of the design such as occasional clogging and poor adherence of the material on the substrate. The use of the frame of an existing 3D printer also limits the potential of the bioprinter because of the specific dimensions and electronics. Nonetheless, the prototype built proves to complete prints and maintain a stable temperature in the syringe. Many improvements can be brought in future devel- opments, yet the current prototype will allow the clients to start proceeding with their research.