Multiphysics response of hydrogels for bioprinting applications
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Bioprinting technologies are increasingly being used to fabricate tissue-mimetic structures by depositing cell-laden hydrogels in spatially controlled architectures, followed by incubation in culture environments that promote cellular development. Within these systems, cells interact with their microenvironment by absorbing nutrients and responding to biochemical cues, ultimately driving tissue formation and specialization. This study integrates theoretical analysis with computational simulations to model key stages of the bioprinting workflow—ranging from design and material deposition to post-processing treatments. Our goal is to enhance process control and optimize hydrogel behavior through a multi-objective approach, accounting for the complex interactions among physical, chemical, and biological parameters. We highlight recent progress in the mathematical modeling of light-induced crosslinking processes in bio-inks, exploring their dynamic coupling with viscoelastic flow behavior during extrusion. Additionally, we propose a computational framework to analyze how the structural and transport properties of the crosslinked polymer matrix influence cell migration and nutrient permeability, providing a foundation for improving scaffold design in tissue engineering applications.