Patent attributes
The present invention relates to a double network bioink that is customizable and tailorable in terms of mechanical characteristics, diffusivity, and biological functionality that is printable at room temperature and cytocompatible. Double network bioinks of the present invention can be utilized as a standard for comparison and evaluation of bioinks and during calibration and/or are suited for the education field as a “blank slate” bioink that can be utilized to convey different scientific concepts. Specific bioinks included comprise: one or more biocompatible or non-biocompatible thickener; one or more polyethylene glycol based crosslinkable network; one or more photoinitiator; and/or optionally, one or more additives to impart desired and/or different characteristics to the bioink. In embodiments the thickener and polyethylene glycol based crosslinkable network form a structure comprising two interpenetrating networks.
