A newly developed technique for enhanced cell growth in 3D scaffolds: Investigation of cell seeding and proliferation under static and dynamic conditions

Cell adhesion on 3D-scaffolds is a challenging task to succeed high cell densities and even cell distribution. We aimed to design a static 3D-cell Culture Device which limits cell loss, facilitates circulation of fluids and can be used with any scaffold. 3D printing technology was used for both scaffold and device fabrication. Apart from testing the device, the purpose of this study was to assess and compare static and dynamic methods and their effects on parameters such as cell seeding efficiency, cell distribution and cell proliferation in different culture conditions. Human adipose tissue was harvested and cultured in 3D-printed polycaprolactone scaffolds. Half the scaffolds were dry and the rest of them were prewetted. Micro-CT scans were performed and projection images were reconstructed into cross section images. We created 3D images to visualize cell distribution and orientation inside the scaffolds. The group of prewetted scaffols was the most favorable to cell attachement. The 3D-cell Culture Device (3D-CD) enhanced cell seeding efficiency in static culture, with almost no cell loss. We suggest that the most favorable outcome can be produced with static seeding in the device for 24 hours, followed by proliferation either in the same device or with dynamic culture.