Bioinks for bioprinting using plant-derived biomaterials

Abstract Three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting has revolutionized tissue engineering by enabling the fabrication of complex and functional human tissues and organs. An essential component of successful 3D bioprinting is the selection of an appropriate bioink capable of supporting cell proliferation and viability. Plant-derived biomaterials, because of their abundance, biocompatibility, and tunable properties, hold promise as bioink sources, thus offering advantages over animal-derived biomaterials, which carry immunogenic concerns. This comprehensive review explores and analyzes the potential of plant-derived biomaterials as bioinks for 3D bioprinting of human tissues. Modification and optimization of these materials to enhance printability and biological functionality are discussed. Furthermore, cancer research and drug testing applications of the use of plant-based biomaterials in bioprinting various human tissues such as bone, cartilage, skin, and vascular tissues are described. Challenges and limitations, including mechanical integrity, cell viability, resolution, and regulatory concerns, along with potential strategies to overcome them, are discussed. Additionally, this review provides insights into the potential use of plant-based decellularized ECM (dECM) as bioinks, future prospects, and emerging trends in the use of plant-derived biomaterials for 3D bioprinting applications. The potential of plant-derived biomaterials as bioinks for 3D bioprinting of human tissues is highlighted herein. However, further research is necessary to optimize their processing, standardize their properties, and evaluate their long-term in vivo performance. Continued advancements in plant-derived biomaterials have the potential to revolutionize tissue engineering and facilitate the development of functional and regenerative therapies for diverse clinical applications.