Development and characterization of 3D printing ink formulations based on hydroxyapatite extracted from fish and Spirulina biomass for use in bone tissue engineering.

• Grant number: 25/26900-5
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• Start date: January 01, 2026
• End date: September 30, 2028
• Field of knowledge: Interdisciplinary Subjects
• Principal Investigator: Renata Neves Granito
• Grantee: Amanda Sardeli Alqualo Assaf
• Host Institution: Instituto de Saúde e Sociedade (ISS). Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP). Campus Baixada Santista. Santos , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 24/11111-2 - Biosustainability in bone tissue engineering: combination of hydroxyapatite extracted from fish and Spirulina biomass in the formulation of inks for 3D printing of scaffolds., AP.R

Abstract

In recent years, hydroxyapatite (HA) extracted from fish waste has emerged as a sustainable, safe, and biologically compatible alternative for applications in bone tissue engineering. Derived from species such as croaker (Micropogonias furnieri), this biogenic HA exhibits a chemical composition and crystalline structure similar to human bone, while aligning with the principles of circular economy and marine waste valorization. However, despite its proven osteoconductive properties, its osteoinductive potential remains limited, motivating the search for bioactive compounds capable of enhancing it.In this context, the combination with biomolecules derived from Spirulina (Limnospira platensis), a cyanobacterium rich in pigments and proteins with well-known antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, represents a promising strategy. Recent studies have shown that Spirulina can promote osteogenic differentiation, modulate cellular metabolism, and improve the microenvironment for tissue regeneration. Therefore, this project proposes an innovative and sustainable approach integrating fish-derived HA with Spirulina biomolecules to develop biomaterials with enhanced osteoinductive potential for regenerative medicine applications.The project will be carried out in three main stages: (1) development of bioactive and biosustainable ink formulations for 3D printing of scaffolds based on fish-derived HA and Spirulina, either isolated or combined in different ratios; (2) morphological, physicochemical, and structural characterization of the scaffolds; and (3) evaluation of the biological effects through indirect assays using material extracts, including cytotoxicity and genotoxicity tests.The results of this study will provide valuable data on the processing and preclinical osteogenic potential of these biomaterials, contributing to advances in sustainable biomaterials and the development of regenerative therapies with high effectiveness, quality, and accessibility for the population. In this way, the project integrates biomedical innovation and sustainability, strengthening a science committed to positive social and environmental impact. (AU)