Keep an eye out for 3D-printed human corneas

Artificial human corneas, printed with a unique biogel ink, could replace transplants as the solution to corneal blindness. A team from the University of Newcastle (UK) led by Professor of Tissue Engineering, Che Connon, have developed the first 3D printed human cornea. Utilizing an alginate and collagen matrix, the team have encapsulated live corneal stem cells and printed them to form a viable living cornea, made to personal specification. In time, the groups work could provide the solution to a global shortage of corneas for transplantation. Corneas make up the outermost layer of the eye, focusing and controlling the entry...