The Future of Transplantation: 3D Bioprinting

Despite the growing infrastructure in healthcare, and as we step further into the advancement of research and innovation in biomedical sciences, the major challenges that we encounter are lack of organs for transplantation, waste due to wrong testing methods and lab to shelf time.

Organ bioprinting is a rapidly evolving field of regenerative medicine that involves the use of 3D printing technology to create functional human organs. The process involves printing a biocompatible scaffold or framework using different types of biomaterials such as alginate, silk fibroin or collagen which is then seeded with live cells like stem cells to encourage tissue growth.

The process of organ bioprinting involves the following steps:

• Imaging and modelling of the target tissue: The required tissue is modelled using computer aided design (CAD) software or by segmenting DICOM images attained from CT/MRI for customized prints.
• Slicing: The .stl/ .obj model is converted into .gcode by a slicing software to generate models using specific bioprinting parameters like speed, temperature, and resolution of printing.
• Bioink development: Depending on the application, certain types of biomaterials along with other types of biological molecules (like growth factors or peptides) are selected to formulate a bioink that fits the desired properties for the end model. The biomaterials must be tested against various biological and mechanical properties. The cells for generating the desired model are selected and cultured based on the target tissue type. The biomaterials and other biological molecules can be mixed along with the cell suspension media (calculated cells) in a 2:1 ratio using a cell mixer. If the cells are not mixed with the bioink initially, they can be seeded on the 3D bioprinted scaffold.
• 3D Bioprinting: Extrusion printing and Digital Light Processing (DLP) are among widely used techniques of bioprinting. Pneumatic and mechanical forces drive the bioink out by robotically controlled extrusion of the bioink which is deposited onto a substrate by a micro-extrusion head. DLP printing is like stereolithography, that use photopolymer resins.
• Incubation and maturation: The bioprinted model goes through a phase of post processing either through part maturation, UV crosslinking or mechanical strengthening. The life of the bioprinted model is prolonged by suspending the part in nutritive media or by creating a bioreactor system. Models with microfluidic designs allow better longevity of the model.

Organ bioprinting has the potential to revolutionize the field of organ transplantation, as it could provide a solution to the shortage of donor organs. However, are there are many challenges to overcome, such as the need for reliable source of compatible cells, development of several types of biomaterials, and most importantly rigorous safety testing. Despite these challenges, bioprinted organs have shown promising results in the lab and could eventually lead to the creation of fully functional human organs for transplants.