ADVANCES AND CHALLENGES IN THE USE OF BACTERIAL CELLULOSE AS A BIO-INK FOR BIOPRINTING OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL STRUCTURES

Abstract

Bacterial cellulose (BC) has been explored as a promising biomaterial for the formulation of bioinks applied to 3D bioprinting, standing out for its unique physicochemical properties, such as high purity, biocompatibility, nanofibrillar structure and excellent water retention capacity. This work presents a comprehensive review on the use of BC as a base for bioinks, addressing from its production, optimization and chemical modification to its practical applications in tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, food and cosmetic industries. BC demonstrates compatibility with several cell types and can be functionalized to promote cell adhesion, proliferation and differentiation. Bioprinting techniques compatible with BC bioinks, such as extrusion, inkjet, laser-assisted and stereolithography, and the challenges associated with rheology, porosity, vascularization and production scale-up are discussed. Recent strategies include the use of porogenic agents, angiogenic factors, cell co-cultures and in situ modification of BC during its biosynthesis. The sustainability of CB is also highlighted, with emphasis on its biodegradability, low toxicity and potential for production from agro-industrial waste. Finally, the article emphasizes the strategic role of CB in the advancement of sustainable technological solutions, highlighting the need for further research to overcome technical limitations and enable its large-scale application in the medical, pharmaceutical, food and cosmetic areas.