# EAGER: Dynamic Cell Patterning in Acoustic Array-Assisted 3D Bioprinting

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Texas Tech University (TX) · $300,000

## Abstract

3D bioprinting is widely recognized as a promising solution to fabricate functional tissues and organs suitable for transplantation. In 3D bioprinting, the bioink containing living cells is precisely deposited to form 3D constructs based on a layer-by-layer manner. Cell patterning arranges cells in specific spatial distributions to resemble the native architecture of tissues and organs, which is crucial for replicating the complex functionality of biological tissues. However, current cell patterning techniques are either extremely challenging to implement into 3D layer-by-layer bioprinting process or constrained to fixed patterns. This EArly-Concept Grant for Exploratory Research (EAGER) award supports fundamental research seeking to develop an innovative acoustic array-assisted 3D bioprinting technology to enable dynamic, layer-by-layer cell patterning within filaments during 3D bioprinting aiming at significantly improving functionality of fabricated tissue and organ models. Results look to advance engineered tissue functionality for various applications across regenerative medicine, drug screening, and personalized drug therapies. Beyond 3D bioprinting, this technology seeks to introduce a new manufacturing paradigm by enabling precise microscale organization of functional materials (such as particles, fibers, and cells), paving the way for advanced applications in healthcare, energy, and electronics.

The objective of this research is to understand effects of the acoust

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2534765
- **Awardee organization:** Texas Tech University (TX)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** EGLKRQ5JBCZ7
- **PI:** Changxue Xu
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** GRADUATE INVOLVEMENT, Materials Engineering, Advanced Manufacturing, Advanced Materials Processing, EAGER, MANUFACTURING, UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION, MATERIALS PROCESSING AND MANFG
- **Estimated total:** $300,000
- **Funds obligated:** $300,000
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2027

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2534765

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2534765, EAGER: Dynamic Cell Patterning in Acoustic Array-Assisted 3D Bioprinting. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-07 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2534765. Licensed CC0.

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