Scaffold-Free Autologous Cell-Based Vascular Graft for Clinical Application

In clinical settings, conventional vascular prostheses have significant limitations with regard to thrombosis, infection, and biocompatibility, especially for small-caliber blood conduits. We have researched and developed a scaffold-free small-caliber vascular graft using a “Kenzan method Bio-3D Printer” to assemble multicellular spheroids to construct a three-dimensional structure predesigned on a computer system. This technique has enabled the production of tubular tissues only containing cells, without any exogenous scaffolds. Currently, we have been engaging in development that aims for the clinical application of autologous cell-based vascular graft made with this Bio-3D printer as a vascular access used for hemodialysis.