bioink

A consortium of researchers from four European countries is developing a way to tattoo microbes on the exterior of buildings. These "living tattoos" will be able to suck carbon out of the air, protect the buildings, and even make them glow.

3D biopriting is gaining popularity but, to work effectively, the “inks” used must be firmed up using UV light or chemical processes. Researchers have developed a new bioink that hardens at body temperature, making it safer for use in artificial organs.

The potential for 3D bioprinting has been further expanded thanks to the work of engineers from the University of New South Wales (UNSW), who have developed a soft robotic arm that can print directly onto organs and tissues inside the human body.

​Degeneration of cartilage in joints can be seriously painful, and it can be extremely difficult to repair. A new research effort could improve the situation, with scientists designing a new method for making artificial cartilage implants that leverages 3D printing technology.