PI: Bahattin Koç, Supporting Agency: TÜBİTAK 1001, Duration: 2013-2015

The main aim of this project is to 3D bioprint live cell aggregates with biomaterials support structures in vascular tissue engineering. In addition, 3D bioprinting tool path planning and parameters are optimized based on the cell proliferation, morphology, autophagy and cell stress analyses. With this proposed work, the following novel methods will be developed: i) new computer aided algorithms will be developed to model and 3D print multi-cellular aggregates and their support structures with biomaterials (hydrogels), ii) a novel multi-nozzle 3D bioprinter will be developed to fabricate the hybrid live cell support structures directly from the computer-aided design (CAD) models, iii) analyzing the biofabricated structures for cell aggregate fusion, cell morphology, autophagy and cell stresses, iv) optimizing 3D bioprinting topology (path planning) and bioprinting parameters. These novel ideas will advance the science and research in computer-aided tissue engineering.

PI: Bahattin Koç with KU Leuven University, Supporting Agency: TÜBİTAK –FWO 2539, Duration: 2014-2016

In this novel collaborative research project, computational model-informed strategies to design 3D patterned constructs and subsequent biomanufacturing of the optimized constructs are proposed for the treatment of large, non-healing bone defects. We hypothesize that TE constructs characterized by controlled spatial patterns of cells, growth factors and matrix densities will enhance the healing of large bone defects. First, a multi-scale computational model of bone regeneration, developed at KU Leuven will be used to design 3D patterned constructs that should enhance the healing of large, non-healing bone defects. The modeled and optimized 3D patterned constructs will then be biomanufactured using fabrication techniques developed at Sabanci University.

Co-PI: Bahattin Koç with Yeditepe Un. and Boğaziçi Un., Supporting Agency: TÜBİTAK 1003, Duration: 2014-2017

The objective is this research plan is to develop a novel multifunctional “active” scaffolds with controlled micro-architecture and material composition using the proposed three-dimensional (3D) electrohydrodynamic coaxial bioprinting device. Computational algorithms will be developed to design such active scaffolds based on the proposed electrohydrodynamic process parameters. The proposed active scaffold with the required mechanical and biological properties will be fabricated by optimizing the composition of the composite coaxial biomaterials. Novel computer aided algorithms will be developed to model 3D scaffolds based on wound geometry and by mimicking wound healing process. The proposed computational algorithms will then be used to calculate optimum 3D bioprinting topologies. The developed multifunctional scaffolds will be tested for their biocompatibility and biodegradation using in-vitro cytotoxicity and animal studies. The results from these studies will be used to further optimize the process and biomaterial parameters.