Description
The presentation, led by Dr. Liam Grover, discusses advancements in tissue engineering, particularly the development of a fully synthetically cultured bone resorbing unit and a new technique in 3D bioprinting to create osteochondral structures. Dr. Grover explains how they achieved high-throughput cultures by encapsulating granules of calcium, phosphate, ceramic, or bone into fibers and seeding cells in situ. This method allows the incorporation of osteoblasts, osteocytes, and osteoclasts in one culture, which can be sustained over time.
He emphasizes the significance of this research in understanding bone resorption processes, especially in the context of microgravity, and outlines how this methodology is now being adopted by companies for drug screening purposes.
Additionally, Dr. Grover presents their approach to 3D printing osteochondral structures without embedding cells initially, instead utilizing a fluid gel as a support matrix. This innovation enables better resolution and structural integrity during printing, which is crucial for producing complex tissue-like shapes. He illustrates the technique through a successful case of creating an osteochondral plug that retains both osteogenic and chondrogenic properties from human tissue samples.
In conclusion, he notes that the research not only optimizes the creation of new tissues mimicking biological behaviors but also provides valuable insights into the role different biochemical cues play in tissue health and disease. Dr. Grover expresses gratitude to his funding partners and collaborators before transitioning to a panel discussion on interdisciplinary research and the challenges in the field.