Methods and apparatus for building complex 3D scaffolds and biomimetic scaffolds built therefrom

A novel method for building complex three-dimensional scaffolds for biomimetic applications such as in vitro organ growth, using a gelatin/sugar/water gel, ultraviolet radiation, and heat or enzyme is described. The method produces gelatin-sugar hydrogels demonstrating greater thermal stability, mechanical strength, and resistance to enzymatic degradation. The invention also provides a means to assemble the gelatin sugar hydrogel films into complex three-dimensional structures (scaffolds). To account for the native biochemical factors present in natural scaffolds, methods of conjugating such factors to the gelatin-sugar hydrogel are described. These scaffolds can then be applied for tissue culturing and organ growth. The present invention also describes a system and apparatus for constructing these complex three-dimensional scaffolds by taking advantage of the physical and chemical properties of the gelatin-sugar hydrogel.