Bacterial Cellulose Nanofibers used to 3D Print Implants

By controlling the growth of bacterial cellulose with oxygen using “superhydrophobic interfaces”, Orlando Rojas and colleagues at Aalto University of Finland have discovered a way to use bacterial cellulose nanofibers to 3D print more realistic, safer, and personalized tissue replacement implants. Using this process, the researchers were able to create an ear and to show proof of concept that the bacteria can be used to grow medical implants as well as wound dressings, replacement blood vasculature, and new ligaments.

Image: Bacterial cellulose bio-fabricated in the shape of an ear via superhydrophobized molding by: Luiz G. Greca