Direct construction of a three-dimensional structure with cells and hydrogel

An organ manufacturing technique was developed that enables the formation of cell/extracellular matrix (ECM) complexes for in vitro or in vivo growth. In this study, a three-dimensional (3D) structure composed of hepatocytes and gelatin/alginate hydrogel was made using a cell assembler-I apparatus to thoroughly control cell assembling. Hepatocytes and ECM were constructed into 10 × 10 × 3 mm³ structures according to a designed pattern. The embedded hepatocytes remained viable and performed biological functions in the construct for more than 12 days. This 3D structure has the potential to be used as a precursor for tissue or organ regeneration. This technology offers the potential for high-throughput production of artificial human tissues and organs.