advancement in tissue engineering through 'shape memory' material boosting tissue growth
In a groundbreaking development, researchers from the University of Birmingham and Warwick University have published a research paper titled "Dove et al (2020). 4D Polycarbonates via Stereolithography as Scaffolds for Soft Tissue Repair" in the prestigious journal, Nature Communications.
The research, led by Professor Andrew Dove and his team, has resulted in the creation of innovative 3D-printed tissue scaffolds that demonstrate a promising future for soft tissue repair. These scaffolds, developed using 3D printing resin 'inks', have several major advantages over current approaches. They exhibit sufficient elasticity, the ability to undergo compression, compatibility with tissues, and undergo non-toxic biodegradation.
The scaffolds, which have evenly distributed and interconnected pores that allow diffusion of nutrients from surrounding tissues, were tested in a mouse model. The results showed infiltration of adipocytes and fibroblasts, vascularisation, and normal tissue restoration. At four months, 80% of the scaffold was still present, demonstrating slow degradation.
This research published today demonstrates the viability of 3D-printed tissue scaffolds that degrade harmlessly while promoting tissue regeneration. The scaffolds are being commercialised by 4D Biomaterials, a spinout from University of Birmingham Enterprise and Warwick Innovations.
4D Biomaterials, a company that commercialises a novel range of patent-pending, printable resins for biomedical applications, is offering technical grade material for commercial supply to 3D printing companies and medical device manufacturers. The company collaborates with innovative companies, including those specialising in advanced 3D printing technologies and biomaterials development, to leverage its 4Degra™ Resin Ink platform for creating a new generation of 3D-printed medical devices that improve patient treatment outcomes.
For commercial or investment inquiries, you can contact Philip Smith at [email protected]. For media inquiries, Tony Moran can be reached at [email protected] or +44 (0) 7827 832312.
The University of Birmingham, where the research was conducted, is ranked amongst the world's top 100 institutions. Over 6,500 international students from more than 150 countries study at the University of Birmingham. The University of Birmingham Enterprise helps researchers turn their ideas into new services, products, and enterprises that meet real-world needs.
Warwick Innovations is the knowledge exchange and commercialization arm of the University of Warwick, providing business expertise, IP protection, and support services.
The 4Degra™ resin-inks were developed by the research team at the University of Birmingham and Warwick University. The company, 4D Medicine Ltd (trading as 4D Biomaterials), was founded by a team of world-class chemists and engineers.
The scaffolds have shown highly promising tissue-healing performance, including the ability to support cell migration, tissue ingrowth, and revascularisation. This development could pave the way for significant improvements in soft tissue repair and regeneration.
