3D Printed Organs: The Future of Regenerative Medicine

• Main Author: Rahul Badwaik
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: JCDR Research and Publications Private Limited 2019-11-01
• Series: Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research
• Subjects: artificial organ; bio-ink; biomaterial; medical application; organ fabrication; tissue engineering
• Online Access: https://jcdr.net/articles/PDF/13256/42546_PD(KM)_CE[Ra1]_F(SL)_PF1(TR_SHU)_PN(SL).pdf
• ISSN: 2249-782X; 0973-709X

Three-dimensional (3D) printing has been recently looked upon as a method to quickly obtain predesigned tissue scaffolds. They have the potential to cater to the increasing demand for organ replacement. An ideal replacement 3D printed tissue should be biocompatible, mechanically durable and should be able to mold easily. The ability to build personalised or patient-oriented implants containing either cells, bioactive drugs or proteins have made the 3D printing technology revolutionary in the clinical field. Researchers have identified a large number of biomaterials which can be used in clinical settings. The 3D printed organs have the potential to bring an era of personalised medicine as 3D printed organs can relieve the burden of organ transplants and donors. Additionally, it will also help reduce healthcare and associated costs because of reduced waiting time for organs, leading to fewer days of hospitalisation and a lower rate of transplant rejections. Increased organ supply can also help decrease the death rate for some chronic diseases. This review aims to provide an overview of the basic principles and techniques used in 3D printing technology. A brief overview of recent advances of 3D bioprinting and clinical applications has also been presented. This review also includes updates on Indian 3D bioprinting industry.