Current Biomedical Applications of 3D-Printed Hydrogels

December 2023 in “ Gels ”

Allan John R. Barcena, Kashish Dhal, Parimal Patel, Prashanth Ravi, Suprateek Kundu, Karthik Tappa

Studysummary In this study, researchers reviewed the progress and challenges in using hydrogels for 3D printing in biomedical applications, highlighting advancements in structural complexity, and identifying ongoing issues like resolution improvement, cell viability, and ethical concerns for clinical use.

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The document reviews the diverse biomedical applications of 3D-printed hydrogels, emphasizing their role in tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and drug delivery. These hydrogels, made from both natural and synthetic polymers, mimic the extracellular matrix, supporting cell growth and differentiation. They have shown promise in bone and cartilage tissue engineering, with significant improvements in bone regeneration and cartilage repair in animal models. In drug delivery, hydrogels have demonstrated efficacy in treating conditions like bone cancer and spinal cord injury. Additionally, 3D-printed hydrogels are used in 3D cell culture and disease modeling, providing more accurate platforms for drug screening. Despite challenges in resolution, cell viability, and regulatory issues, the potential of 3D-printed hydrogels in advancing medical research and treatment is significant.

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