Optimization of a Decellularized Testicular Tissue Matrix-based Bioink for Testicular Tissue Engineering

Abstract

Testicular tissue engineering holds significant promise for restoring male infertility. 3D bioprinting offers a novel approach for fabricating tissue constructs for testicular tissue engineering applications1. However, developing suitable bioinks that recapitulate the native testicular microenvironment while maintaining printability and biocompatibility remains challenging. Here, we report a hybrid bioink composed of decellularized testicular tissue matrix (DTTM) and sodium alginate. Goat testicular tissues were decellularized while retaining key extracellular matrix proteins. The resulting DTTM was mixed with sodium alginate to formulate the bioink, which was characterized for its physicochemical and biological properties. The results demonstrated effective decellularization, along with good uniformity and printability of the prepared bioink. Post-printing cell viability studies showed that the bioink supports high cell viability and provides a favorable microenvironment mimicking native testicular architecture. This work highlights the potential of tissue-specific decellularized matrix-based bioinks for 3D bioprinting in testicular tissue engineering.