Insights into the Emerging Collagen-based Bio-ink in 3D Bio-printing for Tissue Engineering: A Short Review

3D-bioprinting is a new technology for creating precise computer-aided design and shape of any human organs, which has the potential to expedite wound coverage and closure. However, the development of complex tissues and organs in 3D printing is till at an infant stage, primarily due to several hurdles, such as optimization, biomechanical stability, and printing resolution.  Collagen is natural polymer, which found abundantly in the extracellular matrix (ECM) and exhibit excellent biological properties. These collagen-based bio-inks can be tailored for different purposes, including wound healing, tissue engineering, organ transplantation and drug delivery systems. Until now, thermoplastic collagen/collagen bio-inks are limited to use in additive manufacturing (AM). The adaptation of thermoplastic collagen/ collagen bio-inks in AM techniques is therefore a great concern. The use of thermoplastic collagen and collagen-based bio-ink/powder in additive manufacturing can open up new applications in biomedical industries. In this context, this review summarizes the development of 3D bio-printing, its potential biomedical applications, and current challenges in the field.