Abstract: Described herein are embodiments of compositions and methods relating to three-dimensional (3D) printing. Some embodiments are directed to a composition comprising a polymer with one or more dormant functional groups. According to some embodiments, the polymer may be formed through a controlled radical polymerization method. Some embodiments are directed to a composition comprising a polymer with one or more pendent crosslinkable groups. In some cases, the composition may be used as an “ink” for 3D printing. For example, the composition may be injected into a medium. The composition and/or medium may, in some embodiments, further comprise an initiator and/or a crosslinker. After injection of the composition into the medium, the one or more dormant functional groups and/or one or more pendent crosslinkable groups may be activated, and the polymer may be crosslinked. In certain cases, the crosslinked polymer may be removed from the medium to produce a freestanding three-dimensional structure.

Abstract: Microgel particles for use in a three-dimensional cell growth medium are described. The microgel particles may be swellable and may have properties conducive to improved function and health of cells distributed within the three-dimensional cell growth medium. Related compositions, systems, and methods are also described. Also provided is a plurality of microgel particles and a liquid cell culture medium, wherein the microgel particles are swelled with the liquid cell culture medium to form a granular gel. Also provided is a method of preparing a three-dimensional cell growth medium is disclosed. The method may comprise: mixing a plurality of microgel particles, such as those described above, in a liquid cell culture medium. Also provided is a method of placing cells in a three-dimensional cell growth medium is disclosed. Also provided is a method of synthesizing a protein is disclosed.

Abstract: Described herein are embodiments of compositions and methods relating to three-dimensional (3D) printing. Some embodiments are directed to a composition comprising a polymer with one or more dormant functional groups. According to some embodiments, the polymer may be formed through a controlled radical polymerization method. Some embodiments are directed to a composition comprising a polymer with one or more pendent crosslinkable groups. In some cases, the composition may be used as an “ink” for 3D printing. For example, the composition may be injected into a medium. The composition and/or medium may, in some embodiments, further comprise an initiator and/or a crosslinker. After injection of the composition into the medium, the one or more dormant functional groups and/or one or more pendent crosslinkable groups may be activated, and the polymer may be crosslinked. In certain cases, the crosslinked polymer may be removed from the medium to produce a freestanding three-dimensional structure.