Three-dimensional scaffolds are key structures in tissue engineering (TE), as they mimic the natural extracellular matrix, facilitating cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation during tissue regeneration processes. Proper design in terms of geometry, size, and porosity is essential for developing effective treatments in regenerative medicine (RM). In this context, the present study focused on the construction of a scaffold bank made of polylactic acid (PLA), polycaprolactone (PCL), and flexible polymers (FLEX) through 3D printing using the fused deposition modeling (FDM) technique, intending to promote TE research at the Unidad Central del Valle del Cauca (UCEVA). Scaffolds were designed with two geometries (cubic and cylindrical) and four pore types (square, triangular, rectangular, and diagonal at 45°). Thirty-two scaffolds were fabricated for each biomaterial, totaling 96 units with variations in pore size. The methodology included calibration of the REGEMAT 3D R4L printer, definition of specific printing parameters for each polymer, and evaluation of the scaffolds using inverted optical and stereoscopic microscopy. Results showed that the scaffolds exhibited controlled porosity, adequate structural stability, and favorable morphological characteristics. This scaffold bank is proposed as an experimental and educational resource that will enable the development of future research aimed at tissue regeneration, such as bone, skin, cartilage, and tendons. It also strengthens institutional capabilities in biofabrication, contributing to the establishment of standardized protocols that enhance reproducibility in 3D printing. The bank can be used by students and researchers from various disciplines, positioning UCEVA as a regional benchmark in technologies applied to biomedicine.
Caicedo et al. (Mon,) studied this question.