3D Bioprinting is a 3D printing additive manufacturing technique aiming at realizing 3D constructs by depositing, layer-by-layer, biological components [1] (e.g., cells, growth factors, genes, etc.) in order to use them directly on humans [2] to repair or replace damaged tissues or as a material for biological and pharmacological studies [3].

Bioprinting main elements are: the bio-ink (i.g., biomaterials in which biological components are encapsulated) and the 3D bio-plotter (i.g., 3D printer system used to extrude the bio-ink).

Bioprinting is constantly evolving and it became increasingly popular in the field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine thanks to the availability of low-cost 3D bio-plotter that supports the access to Bioprinting by promoting research, even if there are still limitations related to cellular cytotoxicity and survival long-term of the 3D biological constructs.

Bioprinting process consists of following steps: i) patient biopsy to obtain autologous cells, ii) in-vitro cell maturation, iii) cell encapsulation within the biomaterial to realize the bio-ink, iv) 3D printing of the construct, v) incubation and maturation of the 3D biological construct, vi) implant on the human.

[1] V. Mironov, "Printing technology to produce living tissue." (2003): 701-704.
[2] A. Skardal and A. Atala. "Biomaterials for integration with 3-D bioprinting." Annals of biomedical engineering 43.3 (2015): 730-746.
[3] F.P.W. Melchels, et al. "Additive manufacturing of tissues and organs". Progress in Polymer Science, 37.8 (2012): 1079-1104.