“3D Printed Conducting Polymers as Bioelectronic Scaffolds”

Hosted by the Institute of Materials Science & Engineering

Abstract: Three-dimensional materials are used to support the generation and culture of in vitro tissue models as well as to support in vivo tissue regeneration after trauma or disease. Three-dimensional cell-material interactions can be achieved by using scaffolds, materials fabricated into 3D objects internally structured with microporosity. Traditional methods of making biomaterial scaffolds include porogen leaching, freeze-drying, and electrospinning but these may lack precise control of material and structural properties. Advanced manufacturing methods of 3D printing can instead be used to create sophisticated 3D matrices. These biomaterial scaffolds provide not only a physical structure for cell assembly into tissue but also biochemical and mechanical instruction. Beyond these capabilities, next-generation scaffolds possessing embedded technology are being presented. For example, bioelectronic scaffolds can contain electrodes or sensors for controlling, stimulating, or monitoring biological activities. We have developed methods for 3D printing the conducting polymer poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) into microporous scaffolds, which when electronically connected may function as macroelectrodes for electrical stimulation of cells or tissue. In this seminar, I will discuss materials development and processing methods to fabricate such bioelectronic scaffolds, as well as their resulting properties. Emerging applications of these scaffolds in regenerative bioelectronic devices and in vitro monitoring systems will also be discussed.

For inquiries contact Beth Gartin.