There are multiple problems with replacing our organs when they get damaged. First, there is a waiting list for obtaining new organs if they are actually replaceable.
Second, even if a suitable replacement organ is found, the recipient has to take anti-rejection medications for the rest of his or her life.
However, thanks to Dr. Gabor at the University of Missouri, these problems look to soon be a thing of the past.
Utilizing the same technology as inkjet printers, replacement organs will soon be able to be printed in layers similar to the way rapid prototype machines build products out of polymers. The difference is that instead of ink or plastic, live cells are used as the medium.
Why This Trend Is Growing
- 3D Bioprinting
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop advanced 3D printing techniques for creating functional replacement organs using live cells.
- Organ Transplantation
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create new methods to streamline the organ transplantation process and reduce the need for anti-rejection medications.
- Organ Shortage Solutions
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore alternative approaches, such as biofabrication, to address the shortage of organs available for transplantation.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Healthcare
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Integrate 3D bioprinting technologies into the healthcare industry to revolutionize organ transplantation and regenerative medicine.
- Biotechnology
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Apply biotechnological advancements to enhance the process of creating functional replacement organs.
- Pharmaceuticals
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore new drug therapies to minimize the need for long-term anti-rejection medications post-organ transplantation.
