An innovative 3D printing method allows for the growth of bone tissue directly on bioglass, opening new avenues for medicine.
Chinese researchers have introduced an innovative bioactive glass that can be 3D printed and used for bone restoration. Experiments on rabbits showed that the new material supports the growth of bone tissue better than traditional implants.
Unlike ordinary glass, which interacts poorly with living cells, the new bioglass stimulates their growth and promotes long-term healing. The scientists emphasize that the technology is based on “green” methods: the process avoids toxic chemicals and high-temperature melting.
The main component is silicon from sand. Researchers combined its particles with calcium and phosphate ions to create a gel suitable for 3D printing. Structures perfectly matching the damaged bone section are formed from this gel, after which the material is hardened at a comparatively low temperature.
After eight weeks, most cells on the printed bioglass had actively grown, whereas minimal growth was observed on standard glass.
The scientists believe the technology could transform the approach to manufacturing bone implants and allow for their individualized design for each patient. However, additional research is required before human application.
