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Satellite-Based On-Orbit Printing of 3D Tumor Models
Xingwu Mo1,2,3, Yanmei Zhang1,2,3, Zixuan Wang1,2,3
1Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China.
Advanced Materials (Deerfield Beach, Fla.)
|December 25, 2023
Summary
Researchers developed a novel satellite-based 3D bioprinting device for creating tumor models in space. These space-grown 3D tumor models showed increased sensitivity to antitumor drugs compared to those on Earth.
Area of Science:
- Space biology
- Biomedical engineering
- Oncology
Background:
- Space 3D bioprinting offers precise tumor models for studying space environment effects.
- Challenges include prelaunch uncertainty, liquid leakage, long-term culture, and automated control in space.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a satellite-based 3D bioprinting device for on-orbit tumor model creation and culture.
- To investigate the sensitivity of space-cultured 3D tumor models to antitumor drugs.
Main Methods:
- Developed a compact, lightweight satellite-based 3D bioprinting device (<6 kg).
- Created a microgel-based, thermosensitive bioink and suspension medium for in situ printing and culture.
- Implemented an intelligent control algorithm for automated printing, imaging, and data transmission.
Main Results:
- Successfully achieved on-orbit printing of 3D tumor models with stable morphology and moderate viability.
- Demonstrated that 3D tumor models cultured in space exhibit higher sensitivity to antitumor drugs than Earth-based models.
Conclusions:
- This study presents the first successful on-orbit printing of 3D tumor models in space.
- The developed technology opens new possibilities for space life science, medicine, and drug efficacy research in microgravity.
