BIOPRINTING: ADVANCEMENTS, APPLICATIONS AND CHALLENGES IN REGENERATIVE MEDICINE

This chapter introduces the field of bioprinting within regenerative medicine, focusing on the precise fabrication of 3D structures using living cells, biomaterials, and bioactive molecules. Exploring potential applications, it highlights the role of bioprinting in addressing organ shortages, enabling personalized transplantation, and advancing regenerative therapies. The bioprinting process, including pre- bioprinting design, main printing techniques, and post-printing stabilization, is detailed. Case studies illustrate clinical applications, from wound healing to cardiac tissue repair. Challenges include material selection, industrial scaling, complex structure replication, vascularization, and ethical considerations. The chapter underscores the transformative potential of bioprinting in medicine, emphasizing ongoing research to optimize techniques and establish specific regulations for its safe and ethical use.