ABSTRACT
3D bioprinting is a computer-aided manufacturing process that deposits living cells together with hydrogel-based scaffolds and allows for patterning of individual components of the tissue or organ thereby facilitating formation of complex tissue architecture. It can automate tissue engineering (TE) and facilitate cost-effective large-scale manufacturing. 3D-bioprinting technology involves imaging of the target tissue, development of the 3D model from the imaging input with computer software, selection of cells and biomaterial scaffolds for printing, bioprinting, and finally the postprinting maturation of the tissue. The printed tissue depends on the application used either for in vitro testing or for transplantation. Although much progress has been achieved in 3D bioprinting, there is a need for standardization and integration of an entire biofabrication platform, beginning with software design for building models to postprocessing of the printed tissues. To enable widespread adoption of the technology there are several challenges that need to be overcome in the preprinting, printing, and postprinting tissue-maturation stages of bioprinting. Technological innovations in terms of development of novel bioinks, high-resolution and high-speed imaging, and printing techniques as well as dynamic culture systems for postprinting tissue maturation will enable transitioning of bioprinted tissue to the clinic.
