Programming Luminal Tissue Function through Structure–Flow Coupling

We program luminal tissue function by manufacturing structures that generate defined spatial and temporal flow microenvironments. Our function-guided strategy integrates embedded bioprinting, quantitative flow design, and dynamic culture to produce compliant, thin-walled, multicellular constructs with controlled geometry and cellular organization. In human-scale intestinal models, fold-induced shear heterogeneity established regional barrier and absorptive phenotypes, shaped host–microbe interactions, and improved drug-absorption prediction. In multilayer arterial models, designed geometry and coupled hemodynamic, inflammatory, and immune cues reproduced endothelial dysfunction, monocyte infiltration, and foam-cell formation. Programmable pressure waveforms further revealed how the temporal organization of mechanical loading shifts engineered arterial walls between adaptive and pathological states. Together, these studies establish structure–flow coupling as a controllable route from fabrication parameters to tissue states, enabling functional models for mechanistic studies and therapeutic evaluation.

Dr. Hongzhao Zhou is a Research Professor with the School of Mechanical Engineering at Zhejiang University. His research focuses on biofabrication, soft-material additive manufacturing, and microphysiological systems. By integrating function-driven structural design, precision 3D bioprinting, and dynamic culture, his group develops human-relevant intestinal and vascular tissue models for disease research and drug evaluation. Dr. Zhou's research outcomes have been published in several reputable journals, including Cell Biomaterials, Science Advances, Trends in Biotechnology, and International Journal of Extreme Manufacturing. Furthermore, Dr. Zhou serves as an associate editor for Advanced Bionics, and a youth academic editor for the Bio-Design and Manufacturing.