Creating Living Tissues Through Synthetic Biology and 3D Printers

A custom-built programmable 3D printer can create materials with several of the properties of living tissues, Oxford University scientists have demonstrated: Droplet network c.500 microns across with electrically conductive pathway between electrodes mimicking nerve.
Credit: Oxford University/G Villar

Researchers have used a 3D printer to create a synthetic living tissue that can perform some of the functions of the cells inside the human body.

Synthetic biology is the science of designing biological components for a specific purpose. Cells and molecules are used to create parts, devices, and biological systems through DNA nanotechnology, bionanodevices, and genetic engineering. These biological components are used to perform a specific function or part of a bigger biological system.

Current applications of synthetic biology in the medical field have addressed specific needs such as diagnosing diseases, monitoring and identifying cancer cells and also for treatment of common ailments such as acne. A common application for synthetic biology is the creation of enzymes. Enzymes are natural molecules that create necessary and beneficial chemical reactions in the cells and tissues of the body.

Processes used by synthetic biology involve bioengineering through DNA nanotechnology and genetic manipulation. A new way to create biological structures uses 3D printers that can "print" or create three dimensional objects made up of biological material that would behave in a specific way at a specified time or situation.