ABSTRACT

Bioprinting has emerged as a flexible tool in regenerative medicine with potential in a variety of applications. Bioprinting is a relatively new field within biotechnology that can be described as robotic additive biofabrication that has the potential to build or pattern viable organ-like or tissue structures in three dimensions. 1 In general, bioprinting uses a computer-controlled three-dimensional (3D) printing device to accurately deposit cells and biomaterials into precise geometries with the goal being the creation of anatomically correct biological structures. Generally, bioprinting devices have the ability to print cell aggregates, cells encapsulated in hydrogels or viscous fluids, or cell-seeded microcarriers—all of which can be referred to as bioink—as well as cell-free polymers that provide mechanical structure or act as placeholders. 2,3 Biologically inspired, physiologically relevant computer-assisted designs can be used to design and guide the placement of specific types of cells and materials into precise, planned geometries that mimic the architecture of actual tissue construction, 4 which can subsequently be matured into functional tissue constructs or organs. 5,6