Editor’s Note
This article highlights a significant medical advancement from Swedish researchers, who have successfully 3D-printed artificial skin complete with blood vessels. This innovation holds promise for treating severe burns and deep wounds, potentially improving recovery outcomes for patients.
Scientists at Linköping University in Sweden have created artificial skin using 3D printing technology that contains blood vessels. This specific technology is capable of treating severe burns or deep skin injuries.
Repairing skin after major burns or deep wounds is very challenging for doctors. Until now, such patients have been treated by transplanting the top layer of skin (epidermis) from another part of the body. However, this neither restores the skin’s original appearance nor allows it to function fully.
Scientists have developed two new technologies:
- μInk (Micro Ink) – which can be used to create thick skin filled with cells.
- REFRESH Technology – which can create networks like blood vessels within the skin.
In this technology, scientists prepared a special gel in which fibroblast cells (which produce essential components like collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid) were grown on small gel granules. This is printed by a 3D printer in the form of a thick layer, creating a texture similar to real skin.
In the REFRESH technology, scientists prepared a hydrogel that is 98% water but strong enough to be tied or bent. The special feature of this gel is that it has memory, meaning it returns to its original shape even after being compressed.
This gel can later be completely removed by an enzyme, leaving behind a hollow tube in its place that functions like a blood vessel. These tubes can be created in any design and spread throughout the entire skin tissue. Scientists have also made these hydrogel threads into knots and braids to make the vascular network even more complex and effective.
If this technology starts working on humans, it could bring a revolutionary change for burn patients, post-surgery recovery, and even in creating artificial organs. This research has been published in the journal Advanced Healthcare Materials and this technology could be seen in hospitals worldwide in the coming years.