5. Conclusion
In this study, a new formulation of A-SA-Gel hydrogel was developed and tested as a self-standing and vascular supportive biomaterial suitable for 3D printing. The experimental conditions necessary for extrusion-based 3D printing of in-house formulated hydrogel with various simple to complex structures and shapes were optimized by modulating system and solution parameters. Importantly, the complex engineered structure includes a human ear model which is a realistic example of printability of our in-house formulated hydrogel. The printed hydrogel scaffolds also supported the cell growth, that is, HUVECs in this case. The cells were proliferated well on the scaffolding system and extended to endothelial sprouting and microvascular network formation through the scaffolds during the course of the cell culture study. In overall, the in-house formulated new kind of A-SA-Gel hydrogel is a potential biomaterial that may be considered for 3D printing of tissue or organ structures.