Bioinks for 3D bioprinting therapeutics

A new class of hydrogel bioinks is set to overcome challenges previously associated with 3D printing therapeutics. Banner image: 'Akhilesh Gaharwar, Assistant Professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering (Texas A&M University; TX, USA), is leading a research project to develop a bioink platform to sequester therapeutic proteins within a 3D printed structure to control and direct cell functions.' Credit: Texas A&M University Engineering A major challenge facing research teams working with bioprinting is the lack of control over cellular functions. For example, growth factors have proven difficult proteins to incorporate into 3D printed structures for a prolonged period, reducing...