How BioPRINTING works
Bioprinting is a relatively new additive manufacturing method that allows for precision layer by layer fabrication of various biological structures. Bioprinting is similar to traditional 3D printing technologies in that it uses a digital blueprint to create objects. However, bioprinting uses more specialised materials called biomaterials that aim to be biologically compatible whilst aiding in cell growth and repair.
Recent developments in bioprinting now allows us to print living cellular tissues such as skin, bone and blood vessels which could eventually be used for a variety of medical purposes. Through further optimisation of printing parameters, we can aim to continually develop more representative and biomimetic structures. Other applications of bioprinting technologies include, but are not limited to: drug development and discovery, artificial organs, regenerative medicine (e.g. wound healing).