Combined delivery of stem cells with the controlled release of osteogenic factors, within a mechanically-strong biomaterial combined during manufacturing would replace injectable defect fillers (cements) and allow personalized implants to be rapidly prototyped by 3D bioprinting. To this end, a team of researchers at the University of Nottingham printed bone scaffolds using PEG/PLGA microparticles carrying biomolecules in Pluronic F-127.

reference:

Awwad, H. A. D. M. A., Thiagarajan, L., Kanczler, J. M., Amer, M. H., Bruce, G., Lanham, S., … & Dixon, J. E. (2020). Genetically-programmed, mesenchymal stromal cell-laden & mechanically strong 3D bioprinted scaffolds for bone repair. Journal of Controlled Release, 325, 335-346.