Scientists have created the meniscus (cartilaginous lining) of the human knee joint for the first time in space using a 3D printer. The experiment was carried out on the International Space Station (ISS). reported Press service of the American company Redwire.
The BioFabrication Facility (BFF) 3D printing facility developed by Redwire and delivered to the ISS in 2022 was used in the study. Experts used human stem cells and collagen as “ink”.
Astronauts Frank Rubio, Warren Hoburg, Stephen Bowen and Sultan Al Neyadi participated in the experiment.
In space, biological tissues and other heavy materials retain their shape better due to weightlessness, according to the company. In this way, they are easier to manufacture without the use of chemicals and special frames.
As part of the upcoming SpaceX CRS-29 mission in November 2023, Redwire plans to send resources to the ISS for pharmaceutical development and regenerative medicine research, including a heart tissue bioprinting experiment.
Ancient Russian scientists developed biocompatible knee joint implant.