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“Everything is theoretically impossible until it is done.” -Robert Heinlein
What is Biofabrication?
What is Biofabrication?
Biofabrication is an advanced manufacturing process that involves the automated, layer-by-layer construction of biologically functional products using living cells, biomaterials, and bioprinting technologies. It enables the creation of tissue-like structures for applications in regenerative medicine, disease modeling, and drug development.
Biofabrication is like 3D printing, but instead of using plastic or metal, it uses living cells and natural materials to build things like skin, organs, or tissues. It's a way scientists are learning to “grow” body parts to help people heal or replace what’s damaged.
Cell Culture and Harvest
Cell Culture and Harvest
This initial stage involves isolating and cultivating living cells, typically derived from a patient (autologous), donor (allogeneic), or cell bank. Under controlled conditions, cells are expanded to reach sufficient numbers while maintaining their viability, phenotype, and function. Quality control is essential to ensure the purity and consistency of the cell population before integration into the biofabrication workflow.
Scaffold Fabrication
Scaffold Fabrication
A scaffold acts as a structural framework that supports cell attachment, growth, and tissue development. Scaffolds can be fabricated using various techniques such as electrospinning, 3D printing, or freeze-drying, and are made from natural or synthetic biomaterials. The design must mimic the mechanical and biochemical environment of native tissue, facilitating nutrient diffusion, vascularization, and eventual integration with host tissue.
Tissue Maturation
Tissue Maturation
Following cell seeding onto the scaffold, the construct is placed in a bioreactor to promote tissue development. This stage replicates physiological conditions through temperature control, fluid flow, and biochemical stimulation. The aim is to enhance cell differentiation and extracellular matrix deposition, leading to the formation of structurally and functionally relevant tissue. The duration and conditions of this phase vary based on the tissue type.
Scaffold Fabrication
Scaffold Fabrication
Once matured, the engineered tissue must be preserved and safely transported to its final destination—whether for implantation, clinical testing, or research. Techniques such as cryopreservation or hypothermic storage are used to maintain viability. Packaging must ensure sterility, prevent mechanical damage, and comply with regulatory standards for biomedical products during transit.
Why read about the process when you can do it yourself?
Why read about the process when you can do it yourself?
Take the simulations to learn more about the biofabrication industry, document your work, and show schools and employers.
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