BACKGROUND: Tissue replacement is among the most important challenges in biotechnology worldwide. SCOPE OF REVIEW: We aim to highlight the importance of the intricate feedback between rheological properties and materials science and cell biological parameters in order to obtain an efficient bioink design, supported by various practical examples. MAJOR CONCLUSIONS: Viscoelastic properties of bioink formulas, rheological properties, injection speed and printing nozzle diameter must be considered in bioink design. These properties are related to cell behavior and the survival rate during and after printing. Mechanosensing can strongly influence epigenetics to modify the final cell phenotype, which can affect the replacement tissue. GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE: In tissue engineering, biotechnologists must consider the biophysical properties and biological conditions of the materials used, as well as the material delivery mode (in a case or tissue) and maturation mode (curing or biomass), to ensure the development off appropriate materials mimicking the native tissue.