Progress of 3D bio-printed hydrogel scaffolds for cartilage repair

In recent years, there has been a notable surge in the incidence of articular cartilage injuries, positioning tissue engineering as one of the most promising avenues for cartilage repair. Despite substantial progress in the realm of cartilage tissue engineering, significant challenges persist in selecting suitable materials and achieving precise fabrication of more intricate functional structures. Among the array of advanced manufacturing technologies, three-dimensional (3D) printing stands out due to its immense potential for replicating intricate shapes and mimicking the biomimetic properties of engineered cartilage. This article offers a comprehensive review of the foundational principles of 3D bioprinting technology and delves into the factors that influence the selection of hydrogel scaffold materials. It also presents strategies aimed at enhancing their mechanical properties and biological functionality. Furthermore, it underscores the applications and advancements of hydrogel scaffolds in the engineering of nasal, auricular, and meniscal cartilage. Lastly, the article discusses potential improvements and the exciting prospect of exploring 4D printing technology for the creation of dynamic and adjustable cartilage scaffolds, highlighting their contribution to propelling future research in the field of cartilage tissue engineering.