Rapid prototyping of three-dimensional cell/matrix constructs

The current and traditional tissue engineering approaches have been strictly limited to simple functional tissues such as bone, cartilage and skin. Until now there has been no reported success in the construction of functional complex tissue/organ substitutes such as liver, kindey and pancreas. We have recently developed an organ manufacturing technique that enables us to form cell/biomaterial complex three-dimensional (3D) architectures in designed patterns. Rapid prototyping technique was used to assemble hepatocytes and gelatin/alginate matrix into 3D constructs. The embedded hepatocytes remain viable and perform biological functions as long as the 3D structures are retained. The new technology has the potential for eventual high-throughput production of artificial human tissues and organs.