Scientists successfully 3D print biosprosthetic ovaries

Advances in 3D printing have hit across many sectors, transforming old ways of manufacturing into a new revolutionary one. One of these sectors to see major growth has been the 3D bioprinting sector, bringing us innovations that are helping to fuel our movement into the future, such as with the 3D printing of human cartilage tissue and the 3D printing of organs and simulation models.

Yesterday, scientists at Northwestern University in Illinois have made headway in what could be a revolutionary solution for women, and for 3D printing. This new innovation comes in the form of a 3D printed biosprosthetic ovary, a potential new chance for millions of women around the world who are affected by infertility due to cancer.

A close up of an immature mouse egg that is surrounded by supportive cells inside the bioprosthetic ovary scaffold after six days Photo //Northwestern University

To create their biosprosthetic ovary, researchers commissioned the use of 3D printing technology. In order to create the ovaries, scientists used gelatin ink made from collagen that is naturally found in animal ovaries, and a 3D printer that incorporates a nozzle that is specifically adapted for gelatin. The scientists then proceed to print, layer-by-layer, a porous scaffold that would house the egg cells. Once printed, scientists punched 2-millimeter circles through the scaffolds and implanted 40-50 follicles, also known as the fluid-filled sacs that contain immature egg cells, into each one.