Israeli researchers have created a 3D-printer, a very small heart made of human tissue. The prototype is about as big as a cherry, which is about the size of a rabbit heart, said study leader Tal Dvir of Tel Aviv University. It is comparable with the heart of a human fetus.
The heart is composed of tissue and blood vessels, has cells, the researchers report in the journal “Advanced Science”. It does not, however, because the cells can’t move in sync together. Until such a body can be used a human, it’ll take years, stress the researchers.
Researchers tinkering for a long time, living tissue with a 3D printer. In 2016, had made researchers cartilage, bone and muscle tissue in the 3D printer. However, these were used only mice and rats. In another Experiment, mice have even get offspring with artificial ovaries. Even kidneys with their complex cellular structures print for the Filtration of blood and production of urine is necessary.
Prototypes in a special bioreactor tires
“We found by biopsy of adipose tissue of a patient,” said Biotechnologist Dvir to the current Experiment. The cells are reprogrammed to become stem cells. “These differentiate themselves, in turn, in heart cells, cells of the blood vessels, and others,” said Dvir. In the cartridges of the 3D printer supporting substances, which give the print uckendem fabric Retaining plug. These also originate from the patient. From this “Bio-ink” produced by the 3D printer, then the Mini-heart.
“The heart is completely compatible with the patient, because it is created from his own tissue and is therefore unlikely to lead to any Immune response,” said Dvir. This is a decisive advantage compared to donor organs, which lead to defense reactions of the body. Organ recipients must take life-long medication to control it. The great advantage of the 3D system lies also in the fact that each institution could perfectly be on the size and age of the patient.
According to the Israeli researchers, it is the first Time that a whole heart was printed on cell tissue and blood vessels. In similar experiments, only synthetic materials or other natural fabric has been used. The researchers now want to leave the prototypes in a special bioreactor to Mature. Within a year, such a heart will be tested in animal experiments.
The biggest Problem, however, is not the printing technology. It is not enough to position the cells to the right place. You also need to work together so that you can take over organ functions. It will take a while before Doctors are able to Express the required organs easily.