Human skin and bones printed in 3D could save astronauts on Mars



[ad_1]

Skin and bone

Scientists from the Technical University of the University Hospital Dresden (TUD) in Germany have contented themselves with 3D printing of skin and bone samples to see if astronauts on Mars could use the technology in low gravity environments.

The research is part of the European Space Agency's 3D Living Tissue for Space Exploration project, which aims to explore different ways for astronauts to recover from injuries in remote areas of our solar system, such as Mars or space.

The team of scientists used a "bio ink" based on human blood plasma to minimize the risk of rejection by the body. To prevent the ink from flowing into the droplets, they mixed seaweed-based materials to increase viscosity – a material likely to be developed in future spaceships.

"Astronauts could get these [algae-based] substances from plants and algae respectively, a possible solution for an autonomous space expedition, "Nieves Cubo of TUD said in a statement.

Calcium and Algae

Ultimately, the idea is that new tools allow astronauts to treat injuries millions of miles from the nearest hospital.

"Instead, a 3D bio-printing capability will allow them to respond to medical emergencies as they occur," said project manager Tommaso Ghidini. "In the case of burns, for example, a brand new skin could be bio-printed instead of being grafted elsewhere on the astronaut's body, thus causing secondary damage that does not easily heal in the face. Orbital environment. "

READ MORE: Scientists print 3D skin and human bones for Mars astronauts[[[[CNET]

More on 3D printing: Preparing for surgery with 3D printed organs could become a commonplace

[ad_2]

Source link