Innovative Surface Analysis of 3D Bioinks and Hydrogels

Advancements in 3D bioprinting have propelled tissue engineering and regenerative medicine into new frontiers, with bioinks and hydrogels at the core of fabricating viable tissue constructs. These materials are instrumental for simulating the extracellular matrix environment, supporting cell viability and guiding tissue development. Despite their critical role, the intricate surface characteristics of bioinks and hydrogels—encompassing their topography, chemistry, and mechanical profiles—remain not fully deciphered. These surface attributes are fundamental as they directly influence cell adhesion, proliferation, differentiation, and ultimately, the success of tissue integration. Recent research has introduced advanced microscopic, spectroscopic, and rheological techniques to analyze these properties, yet a comprehensive understanding that could optimize design and application is still developing.

This Research Topic aims to deepen the understanding of surface characteristics in 3D bioinks and hydrogels and improve their functionality in tissue engineering applications. The primary goal is to amass a body of work that not only advances our scientific understanding of these complex materials but also integrates cutting-edge analytical techniques to explore how surface properties influence cellular behavior and tissue formation. This topic will encourage the submission of studies that examine the intersection of material science and biology, addressing pressing questions about how the surface characteristics of bioinks and hydrogels interact with biological systems, how these interactions can be harnessed or modified for better outcomes, and how these materials degrade and evolve over time in biological environments.

To achieve comprehensive insights into the surface dynamics of bioinks and hydrogels, we welcome contributions that explore, but are not limited to, the following areas:

o Implementation of advanced microscopy and spectroscopy for detailed surface characterization.
o Investigations into real-time surface-cell interactions to understand immediate and long-term cellular responses.
o Development and application of novel techniques for assessing mechanical and rheological properties at the surface.
o Evaluation of surface modification strategies and their validation through rigorous analytical methods.
o Longitudinal studies on surface degradation patterns and their biological implications.
o Integrative multi-scale characterization techniques that link surface attributes to overall biological performance and clinical efficacy.

Note: We invite submissions of original research articles, reviews, mini reviews and perspective pieces that focus on the aforementioned themes. Manuscripts should adhere to high standards of methodological rigor, with detailed sections on methodologies to ensure reproducibility. For original research, in-depth surface characterization using multiple complementary analytical methods is expected. Reviews should offer a critical examination of existing methods and discuss prospects for future technological advancements. All submissions will undergo peer review, emphasizing innovative aspects, scientific accuracy, and relevance to bioengineering and tissue engineering fields.