3D Bioprinting with Kombucha Nanocellulose: New Approaches for Tissue Regeneration

A research team led by Professor Insup Noh from Seoul National University of Science and Technology has developed a new tissue regeneration method based on 3D printing and an innovative bioink. The scientists use nanocellulose derived from Kombucha SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast) as a scaffold material for printing human cells. This biocompatible material has the potential to replace conventional alternatives and enables sustainable, personalized wound healing.

The core of this new technique is a nanocellulose hydrogel matrix reinforced with chitosan and kaolin, which is applied using a digital biopen. This handheld applicator allows precise layer-by-layer bioprinting, suitable for both irregular wounds and complex 3D structures. The study, published on October 28, 2024, describes the method as an alternative to conventional in vitro tissue engineering approaches.

“Our prefabricated nanocellulose hydrogel network from symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast has the potential to be used as a platform bioink for in vivo tissue engineering by loading all types of biomolecules and drugs and direct bioprinting,” says Prof. Noh.

Kombucha SCOBY is traditionally used for fermenting green tea. The cellulose produced by the microorganisms is biodegradable and cell-compatible but requires modification for 3D printing. The researchers optimized the rheological properties of the nanocellulose through partial hydrolysis with acetic acid to enhance its structural properties. However, this treatment reduced its mechanical stability, which was improved by adding positively charged chitosan and negatively charged kaolin. These particles interact with the cellulose through electrostatic forces, forming a stable hydrogel suitable for 3D printing.

The bioink is mixed directly within the biopen, where counter-rotating screws evenly distribute the ingredients. Through a fine needle, the material can be applied directly to damaged tissue areas. When used with a 3D bioprinter, the system creates complex, multilayer structures with high resolution, including branched tubes and pyramidal constructions over one centimeter in height. Additionally, the biopen allowed for precise filling of 3D-printed models with simulated defects, such as cranial or femoral bone structures.

The combination of bioink and digital biopen opens up new possibilities for cost-effective tissue treatments, particularly for large and irregularly shaped wounds.

“This technology allows for a quick and easy one-step process where the drug and hydrogel are mixed and immediately applied on-site to injured areas of different shapes,” says Prof. Noh.