Researchers from the University of Minnesota have recently made a breakthrough in the field of 3D printing for life sciences, according to The Boston Herald. The research specifically focuses on “creating stem cell-infused scaffolds that could be implanted in spinal cords to repair nerve damage.” The technology relies on using 3D printing to print plastic implants embedded with live cells.
Previously, the University researchers faced issues in figuring out how to print undifferentiated cells and have the cells live through the printing process. However, the researchers have broken new ground and devised a method that allows the survival of 75 percent of neural progenitor cells – stem cells that can differentiate into brain cells. The Boston Herald article further reports that there are “roughly 17,000 spinal cord injuries” in the U.S. every year. Although those with injuries may not necessarily regain their full range of motion, the new breakthrough allows simple improvements that were previously out of the realm of possibilities for 3D-printing.
To read more about the use of 3D-printing in the life sciences, watch a video highlighting the role of 3D printing in the Life Sciences industry from our 3DEXPERIENCE Forum event last year. And check out our post on 8-year-old Hailey Dawson’s opening pitch for the Red Sox on her #Journeyto30.
Nafisa is a second-year student at the University of Virginia looking to major in Media Studies but is open to wherever life takes her. She grew up between Bangladesh, Pakistan and America and is most passionate about news writing, Chick Fil A spicy chicken sandwiches, and dog memes.