New 3D bioprinting approach ‘could allow cartilage to be repaired’

Researchers have developed a new 3D bioprinting technique that could potentially aid the repair of damaged cartilage in the knees, nose and ears.

Study data presented at the National Meeting and Exposition of the American Chemical Society has shown how the new approach could lead to the development of precisely printed implants to heal the damage caused by injuries and arthritis.

Polysaccharides from brown algae and tiny cellulose fibrils were mixed with human chondrocytes to create the new bioink, which has shown the ability to print living cells in a specific architecture and maintain its form even after printing.

Having shown its effectiveness in lab conditions, the approach was then trialled in mice, where it was demonstrated that the cells survived and produced cartilage.

Further preclinical work will be conducted alongside plastic surgery experts before human trials can begin.

Dr Paul Gatenholm, who leads the research team at the Wallenberg Wood Science Center in Sweden, said: "Three-dimensional bioprinting is a disruptive technology and is expected to revolutionise tissue engineering and regenerative medicine."