EXTRACTION AND UTILIZATION OF FISH SCALE-DERIVED GELATIN IN 3D PRINTING: A SUSTAINABLE APPROACH

Freshwater fish scales are an abundant and versatile source of high-quality gelatin, with benefits including improved thermal stability, reduced risk of endotoxic shock and zoonotic disease transmission. This work outlines characteristics of gelatin extracted from fish scale and its applicability in 3D bioprinting. The extracted gelatin has molecular weight ranging from 250-280 kDa and is >99% pure, with total impurity content <20ppm. A high bloom strength of 250g was obtained, demonstrating higher gelling ability under external stimuli. Proximate study shows encouraging biological characteristics; it is non-cytotoxic and devoid of any possible microorganisms, suggesting that it is suitable for biological applications. The gelatin also demonstrated cell viability of 146%, suggesting a favourable effect on cell growth. In-vivo studies showed no skin irritation or abnormal reactions after 72h of observation, confirming its potential use for biocompatible scaffold. Further, the study focused on optimizing synthesis of cross-linked gelatin to create an ink suitable for 3D bioprinting. Critical analysis was done on the optimized concentration range (5-20%) for the creation of ink as well as the uniaxial compression properties, swelling behavior, and biodegradations.