Engineering branching morphogenesis using cell communication

Branching morphogenesis, a specialized part of leads to the formation microstructures (tubes, canals, and glands), source active organ functions. The dynamic mechanisms involved are appearance/disappearance biomolecules morphogens gradients. In context angiogenesis, growth factors allow initiation, regulation, remodeling blood vessels. particular case micro-vascularization, it seems essential reproduce study interaction endothelial cells with their environment but also other cellular components, including fibroblasts. To bring understanding here, we developed an angiogenesis 3D bioprinted (microextrusion bioprinting) model based on proliferative bioink (7.5% (w/v) gelatin, 0.5% alginate, 2% fibrinogen) populated fibroblasts HUVECs. We demonstrated that were able recapitulate branching producing organized microvascularization tissue in 7 days only. clearly bidirectional communication was at stake between two cell types, evidenced only when both types culture environment. Proteomic results (multiplexed ELISA) consolidated this phenomenon, 11 angiogenic proteins identified co-culture supernatant. They as inducers vasculogenesis angiogenesis. Through matrix composition organization study, demonstrate remodeling, extracellular production (type I collagen), phenotype modification (pericytes) taking place our morphogenesis model. Thanks breakthrough scientific advance field regenerative medicine, can imagine biofabrication functional tissues organs models coming decades.