3D-Bioprinting for Precision Microtissue Engineering: Advances, Applications, and Prospects

Abstract

Microtissues, engineered to emulate the complexity of human organs, are revolutionizing the fields of regenerative medicine, disease modelling, and drug screening. Despite the promise of traditional microtissue engineering, it has yet to achieve the precision required to fully replicate organ-like structures. Enter 3D bioprinting, a transformative approach that offers unparalleled control over the microtissue's spatial arrangement and mechanical properties. This cutting-edge technology enables the detailed layering of bioinks, crafting microtissues with tissue-like 3D structures. It allows for the direct construction of organoids and the fine-tuning of the mechanical forces vital for tissue maturation. Moreover, 3D-printed devices provide microtissues with the necessary guidance and microenvironments, facilitating sophisticated tissue interactions. The applications of 3D-printed microtissues are expanding rapidly, with successful demonstrations of their functionality in vitro and in vivo. This technology excels at replicating the intricate processes of tissue development, offering a more ethical and controlled alternative to traditional animal models. By simulating in vivo conditions, 3D-printed microtissues are emerging as powerful tools for personalized drug screening, offering new avenues for pharmaceutical development and precision medicine.