Putting Science Into Standards: 3D bioprinting: towards standards in biomedicine

3D bioprinting is a rapidly evolving field that could revolutionize healthcare and biomedical research. This technology enables the creation of complex 3D structures using living cells and biomaterials (called bioinks), with potential applications in regenerative medicine, in vitro models for drug discovery and cultivated meat. 

It has demonstrated its feasibility in laboratory settings, but significant challenges need to be addressed before its translation to clinical applications.

The 3D printing technology is advanced in the medical device production, but the use of living biological materials requires further improvements.

Standardization efforts should focus on reliable and well characterized bioinks and cells, on defined printing and post-printing process, but also on vocabulary and terminology.

3D bioprinting is a key enabling technology, fitting in the EU priority 2024-2029 of innovation and competitiveness. It relates to the Commission Communication “Building the future with nature: Boosting Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing in the EU” (20/03/2024). The standardization of the 3D bioprinting is also in line with the Horizon 2020 program which emphasizes the importance of sustainability to achieve a healthy society, and with the EU Industry 5.0 strategy that highlights the importance of innovation and sustainability.

The primary objective of the PSIS workshop is to:

• facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the standardization needs across various stakeholders in the 3D bioprinting domain (researchers, industries, clinicians, and regulators)
• identify the key needs for standardization in this field
• establish a network of interested parties for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and facilitating the development of standards that meet the needs of stakeholders