A Network of 3D-Printed Blood Vessels to Facilitate Transplants

At the Israel Institute of Technology, Technion, scientists have created a network of 3D-printed blood vessels that would be able to supply the necessary amount of blood to an implanted tissue. Still in the research stage, this project could have a significant impact on the implantation of tissues in humans: the tissues in question could indeed be better assimilated by a patient and reduce the risk of rejection. The use of 3D printing would also offer a personalized solution to each individual, thus improving operations. This blood vessel network has been successfully tested on a rat and the objective is to move on to larger animals such as pigs.

By using additive manufacturing in their research, many scientists are able to reproduce organs, blood vessels, tumors, or tissues to improve medical operations, their understanding of certain diseases, or reduce the risks associated with transplants. For example, the University of California at San Diego has 3D-printed scaffolds that allow the creation of blood vessels to better treat cancerous tumors. In this case, the team in Israel seeks to improve tissue transplants in a patient.

The researchers first 3D-printed a scaffold covered with a 3D printed hydrogel. (Photo Credit: Advanced Materials)

3D-Printed Blood Vessel Network Made from Collagen

When a patient receives new tissue, it must first be permeated by the body’s blood vessels so that it can receive all the nutrients and oxygen it needs to function and survive. The tissue is therefore first implanted in a “healthy” area of the patient’s body, before being placed in the right location. This step adds a certain complexity to the operation and an additional delay. However, Technion scientists have devised a 3D-printed solution to directly feed this new tissue without going through the patient’s body.