Next Generation 3D Printing

Slow and expensive bioprinting processes hinder the successful manufacturing of complex structures of living tissues and organs. We are developing 3D fabrication technologies that can accelerate the printing process and reduce equipment costs. Our approach involves inventing new 3D fabrication strategies (e.g., 4D printing), developing devices to implement these methods, and enhancing existing 3D manufacturing techniques for bioprinting. Ultimately, we aim to make 3D bioprinting more accessible and scalable.

Keywords: 3D printing, 4D printing, etc.

Organ / Vascular Printing

Printing artificial organs with perfusable vasculature is crucial for maintaining the viability of living tissues and organs. Without perfusable vasculature, tissue thickness is typically limited to under 200 μm, and the lack of effective vascularization methods hinders the production of biologically functional organs of sufficiently large size. We are developing organ and vascular printing technologies with the goal of creating transplantable artificial organs and cultured meats.

Keywords: Vascularization, Artificial vessel, etc.

Organ on a Chip (Microphysiological Systems)

Developing Organ-on-a-Chip technology is essential for creating accurate and reliable models of human organs. These microphysiological systems mimic the complex structure and function of real organs, providing a powerful tool for studying human diseases, drug testing, and personalized medicine. Traditional animal models often fail to replicate human-specific responses, but Organ-on-a-Chip systems offer a more precise and ethical alternative. Our research focuses on designing and optimizing these systems to advance our understanding of human physiology and accelerate the development of new treatments. 

Keywords: Organ on a chip, in vitro platform, Microfabrication, etc.

Biomimetic / Biohybrid Robotics

Living organisms have evolved motor systems over billions of years that are not only highly efficient but also remarkably adaptive to various environments. Leveraging these natural advantages, we aim to harness the movement systems of living organisms for engineering applications, to develop robots capable of interfacing with living systems, and ultimately to pave the way for the creation of artificial organs, such as the heart or hand, that require dynamic and precise movements. 

Keywords: Biomimetic robots, Biohybrid robots, Artificial muscle, microswimmer, etc.