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3D Bioprinting is a multidisciplinary field targeting the fabrication of functional tissues and organs from living cells in a layer-by-layer manner. 3D Bioprinting allows the inclusion of multiple cell types in the same layer or in different regions of the construct, while maintaining a high spatial resolution. 3D Bioprinters commonly use ‘bioinks’ based on human cells, the materials and nutrients needed to grow body tissues such as skin, bone, and cartilage. Besides providing a useful research tool for studying 3D tissues, the possibility to 3D-print living cell constructs is now paving the way towards the production of patient-specific tissues and organs.

The European Space Agency ESA is building a 3D Bioprinting capability in Low Earth Orbit which will provide support for research and preparation activities to enable long-term human deep space exploration. To support and facilitate human exploration on deep space missions, a better fundamental understanding and characterisation of the effects of space stressors (e.g., microgravity and cosmic radiation) is needed. In addition, it is crucial to assess, define, and establish the most effective and efficient ways of minimising or mitigating these detrimental effects to maintain the crew health and ensure mission success.

Because working in microgravity conditions presents special challenges, it is necessary to develop methods to ensure that the use of 3D bioprinting in space works efficiently. For this reason, the workshop will identify key challenges that need to be addressed before real space bioprinting can be launched.

You can find the current programme of the workshop here. Registration (free of charge) is now possible via this external webpage!

More infos from ESA are available here.