The human body of the near-future will have spare parts in case anything is damaged. At Wake University in North Carolina, researchers say they have created a 3D printer that can produce organs, tissues and bones that could theoretically be implanted into living humans. 3D printers extrude layers of materials in a very precise pattern through a computer-controlled nozzle to make almost anything, but instead of using molten plastic or metal, Wake Forest’s printer uses what are called hydrogels—water-based solutions containing human cells. Hydrogel, along with the use of other biodegradable materials, can be used to make these replacement body parts safe and strong. So far the researchers have created an ear and a jaw bone that could be implanted into humans, and according to the researcher’s recent paper, the printed products showed no signs of necrosis, or cells dying in the tissue when tested. For all those waiting for a transplant, this could potentially be just what they need to get them healed faster.
This 3D printer creates human muscles and tissues that could actually replace real ones
More of Today's Solutions
Europe’s low-carbon future: Denmark’s North Sea oil field is now a carb...
Once a symbol of fossil fuel extraction, the remote Nini oil field in the North Sea is preparing for a new role: storing millions ...
Read MoreGrace Richardson makes history as first openly gay Miss England: ‘I’ve achiev...
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM When Grace Richardson took the stage at the Miss England final in Wolverhampton, she wasn’t just chasing a ...
Read MoreWorld’s first hydrogen-powered cargo vessel to set sail in Paris this year
In a world's first, a commercial hydrogen-powered cargo vessel will make its maiden voyage later this year. Developed by French shipowner Compagnie Fluvial Transport ...
Read MoreA guide to self-kindness: transforming negative self-talk into positive affir...
As we go through the motions of daily life, it's tempting to listen to our inner critic's constant commentary. Negative self-talk, or the constant ...
Read More
