Biofabrication: a 21st century manufacturing paradigm

Area of Science:

• * Biofabrication integrates cell biology, biomaterials science, and mechanical engineering.
• * Explores the creation of complex living and non-living biological products.

Background:

• * Traditional applications in tissue engineering and organ printing are expanding.
• * Biofabrication is crucial for developing predictive human cell- and tissue-based technologies.
• * Potential applications include drug discovery, toxicology assays, and in vitro disease models.

Purpose of the Study:

• * To define biofabrication and identify key contributing disciplines.
• * To analyze evolving biofabrication technologies and their applications.
• * To discuss challenges and necessary conditions for industry and research development.

Main Methods:

• * Review of interdisciplinary fields contributing to biofabrication.
• * Analysis of current and emerging biofabrication technologies.
• * Discussion of practical applications and industry challenges.

Main Results:

• * Biofabrication extends beyond medical uses to drug discovery and environmental toxicology.
• * Long-term potential includes sustainable energy and 'animal-free' products.
• * Biofabrication is poised to become a dominant 21st-century manufacturing platform.

Conclusions:

• * Biofabrication represents a paradigm shift in manufacturing with vast industrial potential.
• * Overcoming challenges is key to fostering a global research community and commercial industry.
• * Continued development is essential for realizing diverse applications from healthcare to agriculture.