3D-Printed Blood Vessels

Mar-05-17 Using light-activated 3D printing, researchers have developed a way to print vascular networks that could help usher in artificial organ production.

The technique, from a team at the University of San Diego, involves first creating a 3D computer model of the structure, which is then transferred to motorized mirrors as two-dimensional snapshots taken from different angles. The mirrors mimic the shapes of the snapshots to project UV light onto a solution of live cells and UV-sensitive polymers, causing the polymer to solidify and trap the cells, unharmed, within the structure.

In tests on the skin wounds of mice, the structure bonded with the creatures’ natural circulatory system to support normal blood flow after about two weeks.

Large Image: Professor Shaochen Chen 3D prints a biomimetic blood vessel network on the team's custom 3D printer.

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[CO.UK]
[JACOBSSCHOOL.UCSD.EDU]

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