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Diabetes type 1 is characterized by autoimmune-derived destruction of the insulin-producing beta-cells in the pancreas. Exogenous insulin treatment is the standard therapy, however, for a subgroup of patients with highly unstable blood glucose control, transplantation of allogenic pancreatic islet cells and reconstruction of endogenous insulin secretion is far preferable. For a successful transplantation it is necessary to ensure protection of the islets from the immune system while preserving sufficient supply with oxygen and sensing the blood glucose level.

The aim of the project is to develop a novel encapsulation technique for pancreatic islets based on the bioprinting technology of 3D plotting. Bioprinting enables the combination of the advantageous properties of hydrogels for cell encapsulation with the possibility to fabricate 3D scaffolds with predesigned shape and pore structure. Functional 3D constructs consisting of islets of Langerhans and alginate-based hydrogels should be generated in which the islets are protected by preventing direct contact with immune cells and optimally supplied in order to enable long-term survival and function.