Speaker
Description
Abstract:
Introduction:
Islet transplantation is a promising therapeutic avenue for Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM),
yet its efficacy is limited by inadequate extracellular matrix (ECM) support and
microenvironmental cues that affect beta-cell viability and insulin secretion. Furthermore,
continuous and accurate monitoring of insulin release is essential for evaluating islet
functionality and guiding therapeutic optimization. To overcome these challenges, we
developed a 3D-bioprinted islet construct using bioactive, human-derived hydrogels, and an
external Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS)-based sensing platform for real-time
insulin detection from bioreactor-conditioned media.
Materials and Methods:
MIN6 pancreatic beta cells were encapsulated within a composite hydrogel made from
human umbilical cord-derived decellularized ECM (UdECM) and hyaluronic acid
methacrylate (HAMA). UdECM provided native biochemical cues, including proteins and
glycosaminoglycans, promoting cell adhesion, proliferation, intercellular connectivity, and
exhibiting low immunogenicity. HAMA enhanced the mechanical stability and printability of
the bio ink while maintaining high cytocompatibility. Constructs were fabricated using
extrusion-based bioprinting and cultured in vitro. Conditioned media collected at defined
time points was analyzed using a customized SERS-based sensor for label-free, high-
sensitivity insulin detection.
Results:
The UdECM-HAMA constructs showed high structural integrity and supported the self-
assembly of MIN6 cells into spheroid-like clusters. Live/Dead and Alamar Blue assays
demonstrated excellent cell viability and proliferation. Immunofluorescence revealed strong
expression of N-cadherin and connexin-46, indicating enhanced cell-cell communication.
Insulin secretion reached ~60 ng/mL by day 14, significantly exceeding that of control
groups. The external SERS sensor enabled sensitive, real-time detection of insulin in the
culture supernatant with high specificity and reproducibility.
Conclusion:
The 3D-bio printed islet constructs developed in this study successfully mimicked native
pancreatic architecture and supported functional beta-cell behavior with minimal
immunogenic response. The incorporation of an external SERS-based insulin sensor enabled
continuous, non-invasive monitoring of islet activity. This integrated approach offers a
valuable platform for diabetes research, therapeutic screening, and future clinical translation
of islet transplantation technologies.
Acknowledgment:
This work was supported by MHRD (MOE), SOCH 4, PMRF (Prime
Ministers Research fund)
References
1. Edri, Shlomit, et al., Advanced Functional Materials: 2315488 (2024).
2. Wang, D., Guo, Y., Zhu, J., Acta biomaterialia, 165, 86-101(2023).
3. Cho, Hyunjun, et al. ACS sensors 3.1: 65-71 (2018).
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