Joint research team from Pusan National University (PI: Prof. Dong-Wook Han) and Incheon National University (PI: Prof. Kyung Min Park) have developed oxygen-generating bioink (i.e., a raw material for 3D bioprinting containing cells and biological components) for restoration of severe muscle injuries.

This bioink contains magnesium peroxide, which slowly generate oxygen to maintain cells alive and support muscle regeneration. It was designed to treat volumetric muscle loss (VML), which means a serious condition where large portions of muscle are damaged, such as in war injuries or car accidents.

When transplanted in mice, the 3D bioprinted muscles helped restore muscle tissue more faster and effective than current methods, and also reduced inflammation. The researchers believe this technology could be used in emergency situations, such as battlefield injuries or space missions, and potentially can be applied for regeneration of other tissues like bone or nerves.

- Authors (Pusan National University)

 · First author: Moon Sung Kang (Institute of Nano-Bio Convergence)

 · Corresponding author: Dong-Wook Han (Department of Optics & Mechatronics Engineering)

- Title of original paper: 3D bioprintable Mg²⁺-incorporated hydrogels tailored for regeneration of volumetric muscle loss

- Journal: Theranostics

- Web link: https://www.thno.org/v15p2185.htm

- Contact e-mail: nanohan@pusan.ac.kr