Bioprinting and cell research is fundamentally changing medicine. I have previously reported on how the cell-based variant of 3D printing made it possible to print hearts and liver.
Now the next research step was started successfully. In a development that may one day help patients waiting for an organ donation, doctors have succeeded in breeding a human mini-liver created with skin cells and implanting it in rats.
The stem cells cultivated from the cells enabled the scientists to create several mini-livers, which they then implanted into five rats. Four days later, the livers were still functioning, but there were medical complications, such as circulatory problems. Although the experiment was only a small step towards a breakthrough, the researchers are motivated to continue.
Even though the cultivation of a functional human organ and the use of bio-printing to create such organs are still dreams of the future, the team of scientists in good spirits is developing ways to keep patients alive longer until the actual compatible organ can be found.
The combination of the various technological breakthroughs in medicine will lead to a breakthrough in the healthcare system in the coming years. If bioprinting research is combined with the efforts of cell research, as described in this article, completely new possibilities for the patient will arise.
Hospitals, research institutions and doctors must therefore look beyond their own backyard and evaluate the possibilities offered by the current innovations and technologies. In this way, they can approach the world of tomorrow with an open mind and place a stronger focus on people and their well-being.
Post Picture: UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH
