Engineering Large Meniscal Tissues via 3D Printed Multipart Molds

Unfortunately, the meniscus is commonly injured, and due to the low intrinsic healing capacity of the meniscus, surgical intervention is often required to treat acute symptoms. However, current treatments such as partial meniscectomy or tissue replacement with clinically available scaffolds – all of which lack the anisotropic organization of the native meniscus – are inadequate.

Here, we present the engineering of highly organized meniscal tissues using 3D printed hydrogel molds to guide organization of a cell-laden collagen gel. Utilizing an inexpensive 3D printer ($270 USD), we introduce the fabrication of large multipart hydrogel molds with removeable lengthwise walls. We screen seven unique starting formulations in which mold depth, collagen density, and cell concentration are modulated and resultant biochemical and mechanical properties are assessed.