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Right Turn: 3D printing making its mark to benefit patients

by | Sep 25, 2020

It’s been a busy week for 3D printing news. Here are some stories that caught my attention.

Milking the advantages of direct ink writing

Researchers from the Singapore University of Technology and Design published research demonstrating they have developed a method for using a direct ink writer (DIW) 3D printer to print milk-based products at room temperature without the need for additives. The thought of having to drink powdered milk again gives me shivers, but the applications of this research will benefit patients in hospitals who have special dietary needs and consumers who want clean labels.

Bean-based 3D bioprinted scaffolds. Soy what you say?  

Oncologists may have a new treatment in their arsenal. A soy-infused, 3D printed, bone-like scaffold may be able to ward off cancer cells, according to research developed at Washington State University. The researchers showed that harnessing the health benefits of soy and using the scaffold post-operatively in children and young adults suffering from osteosarcoma resulted in fewer bone cancer cells, more healthy cells and a reduction in harmful inflammation. Read more about the research here and learn about scaffolds here.

A sweet solution for diabetic patients

Vancouver-based company Aspect Biosystems (one of CCRM’s portfolio companies) has teamed up with the University of British Columbia’s Dr. Timothy Kieffer to produce a bioprinted therapeutic of pancreatic cells surrounded by a protective layer that can be implanted in Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) patients who are unable to naturally regulate their blood sugar levels. This bioprinted therapeutic will do it for them using genetically modified stem-cell derived pancreatic cells that will take over the production of insulin. As explained in this news release, the goal is to treat “T1D with insulin made by pancreatic cells in the patient’s own body, like a transplant – but in a way that hides those cells from the patient’s immune system so anti-rejection drugs are not needed.” The collaboration is receiving funding from Genome BC.

Watch this video to learn more about Aspect Biosystems and the potential offered by 3D bioprinting.

 

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Stacey Johnson

Stacey Johnson is the editor of Signals and a contributor. For 25 years, Stacey has been providing strategic communications counsel to government, corporate, technology and health organizations. She began her career at the CTV Television Network and then moved to Hill & Knowlton Canada where she advised clients in a variety of industries and sectors. Stacey is the Vice President, Communications and Marketing for CCRM, a leader in developing and commercializing regenerative medicine-based technologies and cell and gene therapies. She has a Master's degree in Public Relations. You can follow her on Twitter @msstaceyerin.

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