Implants of increased complexity

A step has been taken towards 3D printing of one of the most complex body tissues

Svetlana Maslova, Hi-tech+

A group of American scientists presented the first results on the reproduction of the physical characteristics of osteochondronal tissue. This complex biological tissue is located between cartilage and bone and is often damaged due to sports injuries of the knees, ankles and elbows, as well as against the background of aging.

The structure of osteochondronal tissue is extremely difficult to simulate, but researchers managed to print a prototype of the future implant. The work is published on the Rice University website (3D-printed tissues may keep athletes in action).

To create an analog, the team used a mixture of polymers and ceramics.

The implant simulates a complex porous structure that will allow a person's own cells and blood vessels to penetrate through it to be involved in the natural environment of the body.

"Eventually, the implant will become a natural part of bone and cartilage and we won't have to make blood vessels ourselves," says scientist Sean Bitter.

Now the team is faced with the task of developing a method of direct 3D printing of the implant so that it fits the patient perfectly. The authors are confident that their technology will open up new opportunities for regenerative medicine in the field of traumatology.

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