3D bioprinting adipose tissue for breast reconstruction

M. P. Chae, D. J. Hunter-Smith, S. V. Murphy, M. W. Findlay

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter (Book)Otherpeer-review

17 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Three-dimensional bioprinting has garnered immense interest over the past decade based on its potential to provide a means to rapidly manufacture replacement body parts that replace like with like and are immediately biocompatible. Despite promising advances in bioprinting, it is still immensely difficult to reproduce the delicate structure-function relationships of complex tissues and organs using this approach. In this way, the bioprinting of functional autologous solid organs (e.g., kidney or heart) remains an aspirational goal. However, the formation of more simple tissues such as adipose tissue for breast reconstruction, represents a lower-hanging fruit in translational bioprinting research. The ability to bioprint autologous fat tissue would be transformational in the management of breast cancer patients. This centers around the combination of great need for breast reconstruction in today's society and a lack of an ideal form of breast reconstruction characterized by simplicity along with a low complication profile. Here, we present the current state of the art and future perspectives on 3D bioprinting for the breast as this approach transitions from the bench to the bedside.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication3D Bioprinting for Reconstructive Surgery
Subtitle of host publicationTechniques and Applications
EditorsDaniel J. Thomas, Zita M. Jessop, Iain S. Whitaker
Place of PublicationUK
PublisherAcademic Press
Chapter15
Pages305-353
Number of pages49
ISBN (Electronic)9780081012161
ISBN (Print)9780081011034
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2 Nov 2017

Keywords

  • 3D bioprinting
  • 3D printing
  • Adipose tissue
  • Breast reconstruction
  • Tissue engineering

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