What is 3D bioprinting and how is it being utilized in India?
3D bioprinting is a process of creating cell patterns in a confined space using 3D printing technologies, where cell function and viability are preserved within the printed construct. In India, this technology is used to print human tissues for drug testing and potential transplantation.
How has the 2019 New Drugs and Clinical Trial Rules amendment in 2023 impacted Indian research?
The amendment allows researchers to use alternative methods like 3D bioprinted tissues for testing the safety and efficacy of new drugs, potentially reducing reliance on animal testing.
What are some leading Indian entities involved in 3D bioprinting?
Key players include Pandorum Technologies, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Hyderabad, and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore. They are developing bioengineered tissues and advanced biomaterials for medical applications.
How does the 3D bioprinting process work?
The process involves printing living cells layer by layer to replicate natural tissue architecture. It often uses a bioink made of a polymer, living cells, and components that support cell growth.
What is the significance of the LIGO-India facility’s location in Hingoli, Maharashtra?
The location is strategic for the gravitational-wave observatory due to its geographical positioning, which is crucial for the detection sensitivity of the LIGO network.
What future applications are expected from 3D bioprinting in India?
Applications range from pharmaceutical drug testing to building tissues or organs for medical repair or replacement. Indian labs are working on developing various tissue models, including those for the skin, liver, and cornea.
What are the cost advantages of using Indian silk in bioprinting?
Indian silk, used as a biopolymer, is significantly cheaper than purified collagen and has unique biological properties that facilitate cell proliferation, making it a cost-effective option for tissue engineering.
When can we expect the commercialization of these bioprinted tissues and organs?
Some models like skin and cornea are anticipated to be ready for drug and toxicity screening within a year, with clinical trials for certain applications expected to begin in the following years.
