Researchers have achieved a significant advancement in creating fully biologic tissue models using a novel 3D bioprinting technique with collagen. This breakthrough enhances the study of diseases and tissue development for potential therapies. The innovative method employs Freeform Reversible Embedding of Suspended Hydrogels (FRESH) to print soft living cells and tissues, offering unprecedented structural resolution and fidelity.
Traditional tissue models often incorporate synthetic materials, which limit their ability to accurately mimic normal biology. The new collagen-based models, however, closely replicate human physiology, leading to improved functionality. According to Feinberg, a professor of biomedical engineering and materials science and engineering, this FRESH bioprinting advancement allows the construction of microfluidic systems entirely from collagen, cells, and other proteins with remarkable precision.
The technology has been successfully used to create a pancreatic-like tissue, showing promise for potential Type 1 diabetes treatment. A company is reportedly planning clinical trials in humans soon. Furthermore, researchers aim to release open-source designs to facilitate broad adoption of this technology, potentially accelerating advancements in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.