A team of researchers from Trakia University – Stara Zagora is carrying out a research project focused on developing an innovative technology for three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting of bone tissue. The main objective of the study is to create a new type of bio-ink with improved biocompatibility and enhanced osteoregenerative potential.

The project examines the processes of bone tissue regeneration through osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells isolated from the bone marrow of laboratory animals. These cells are integrated into three-dimensional bioprinted scaffolds with different compositional formulations, and their viability, cellular integration, and mineralization capacity are evaluated.

The team’s innovative approach combines advances in biomaterials science, cell technologies, and engineering methods to closely replicate the natural microenvironment of bone tissue. The initial results demonstrate promising cellular adhesion and mineralization, confirming the potential of this technology for future applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

The project is part of Trakia University’s strategic vision to strengthen its position as a leading national center for scientific innovation and progress in the field of biomedical sciences. The initiative is a strong example of the ability of Bulgarian science to develop solutions with real contributions to human health and the sustainable development of society.

The research is being carried out under Project No. H001-2023.45 / 23.01.2024, titled “Three-dimensional bioprinting (3DBP): a bio-ink formulation study in the context of bone tissue regeneration”, funded under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan, Component “Innovative Bulgaria”, Investment 1 “Program for Accelerating Economic Recovery and Transformation through Science and Innovation”, under the direct grant procedure “Establishing a Network of Research Universities in Bulgaria”, Project No. BG-RRP-2.004-0006-C02 “Development of Research and Innovation at Trakia University in Service of Health and Sustainable Well-Being.”

The team is multidisciplinary, bringing together expertise in veterinary medicine, biomaterials, cell biology, and engineering technologies.

Project coordinator:
Assoc. Prof. Diana Vladova, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Trakia University

Team members:
Prof. Tsvetan Chaprazov, Assoc. Prof. Dimitar Kostov, Senior Assistant Prof. Hristo Hristov
Assoc. Prof. Petya Veleva, PhD (Faculty of Agriculture)
Eng. Daniela Stoeva (Central Research Laboratory – Trakia University)

Partners:
Prof. Victoria Sarafyan, PhD, and Senior Assistant Prof. Yordan Sbirkov, PhD – Department of Medical Biology, Medical University – Plovdiv
Assoc. Prof. Elena Stoyanova, PhD – Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences – Sofia

With expert support from:
Prof. Ivan Dinev, PhD, and Dr. Kiril Dimitrov – Laboratory at the Special Pathological Anatomy Section, Department of General and Clinical Pathology, VMF – Trakia University.