Optimizing phenol-modified hyaluronic acid for designing shape-maintaining biofabricated hydrogel scaffolds in soft tissue engineering

In this study, we developed a well-printable biomaterial ink for 3D printing of shape-maintaining hydrogel scaffolds. The hydrogel base comprised tyramine-modified hyaluronic acid (HA-Tyr) and gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) and was dually cross-linked. Using the Box-Behnken design, we explored how varying the ink composition affected fiber formation and shape preservation. By adjusting the polymer ratios, we produced a stable hydrogel with varying responses, from a viscous liquid to a thick gel, and optimized 3D scaffolds that were structurally stable both during and after printing, offering precision and flexibility. Our ink exhibited shearthinning behavior and high swelling capacity, as well as ECM-like characteristics and biocompatibility, making it an ideal candidate for soft tissues matrices with storage modulus of around 300 Pa. Animal trials and CAM assays confirmed its biocompatibility and integration with host tissue.

Automated summary

In this study, a printable biomaterial ink for 3D printing of shape-maintaining hydrogel scaffolds was developed. The ink was composed of tyramine-modified hyaluronic acid (HA-Tyr) and gelatin methacrylate (GelMA), and was dually cross-linked. By adjusting the polymer ratios, a stable hydrogel with varying responses was produced, offering precision and flexibility in 3D printing. The ink exhibited shearthinning behavior and high swelling capacity, making it an ideal candidate for soft tissue matrices with ECM-like characteristics and biocompatibility.