Feb 3rd 2022
Posted by Accuspire
Is 3D Bio-printing A Cure For Keratoconus?
This new technology is recently developed in Newcastle University. It is used to build a cornea using 3D bio printing technology. The cornea is responsible for our eyes to see and is the clear outer layer of the eye. Corneal transplant is usually prescribed for people suffering from keratoconus. For this purpose, donor corneas have been used traditionally. These corneas are carefully obtained and are used to replace defective corneas, which gets damage because of various reasons. The main problem is that there is a great demand of donor corneas and there is also shortage in supply. One of the other problems is graft rejection associated with the transplant surgery.
To overcome this problem, scientists as well as some tissue engineers have developed a method to build artificial cornea. However this has not developed as a successful treatment, but it will become one in upcoming days.
Working procedure:
The human cornea is scanned at first and a digital model is created and is exported to a 3d printer. A special type of ink known as Bio-ink is used to design the cornea which is present in the bio printing cartridge. This ink is made from hydrogel and corneal stem cells. A scaffold in the shape of cornea is made. The bio ink is layered in concentric circles and the stem cells are placed in the bio ink, nurtured and controlled under suitable conditions to create a cornea.
Research is going on to ensure it is safe and effective. If this becomes a success, it can transform millions of lives who are currently suffering from various eye conditions.
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