Researchers have developed a flexible 3D bioprinter that can create separate ‘layers’ of different biomaterials directly onto organs or tissues.
The system, developed by researchers at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) in Sydney, could reduce equipment penetration in contrast to other bioprinting processes, potentially helping to avoid major surgery or organ removal, technology site Engadget reported.
This claim sounds prophetic, at least in theory. However, the research team cautioned that the method is still five to seven years away from being useful in humans.
The printer, known as ‘F3DB’, has a flexible robotic arm, which can attach different biological materials and damaged internal organs or tissues with stem cells.
Its ‘spiral structure enters the human body through the mouth or anus, where a pilot/surgeon directs the direction to the affected area through various hand signals.