Overview

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This course provides a comprehensive introduction to 3D bioprinting as an emerging technology at the intersection of engineering, materials science, and biology. Starting from the fundamentals of 3D printing in biomedical applications, the course progressively covers bioprinting workflows, advanced printing techniques, biomaterial design, and cellular and tissue-level considerations. Through real-world examples and current research trends, students will gain insight into how bioprinting is transforming medical devices, drug testing platforms, and regenerative medicine. What makes this course exciting is its integrative perspective. Students will learn not only how bioprinting systems work, but also why material properties, printing parameters, and cellular microenvironments are critical for achieving functional tissue constructs. By bridging engineering principles with biological functionality, the course equips learners with the conceptual foundation needed to understand and contribute to future developments in bioengineered tissues and medical fabrication technologies.

Syllabus

Overview of 3D Printing and Future Medical Technology
- The course explores the fundamental concepts and historical development of 3D printing technology, as well as its potential integration into future medical applications. It examines how 3D printing is currently utilized in clinical settings through various examples, and considers its scalability and potential through cases involving the fabrication of living tissues embedded with cells for Bioengineered Human Tissues development.
Understanding 3D Bioprinting Technology
- The definition and characteristics of bioprinting technology are examined, with a focus on how it differs from conventional 3D printing. The course covers the process of generating manufacturing codes based on 3D modeling data, as well as the core components and control parameters required to operate a bioprinter in practice.
Advanced 3D Bioprinting Technologies
- A range of bioprinting techniques and their applications are introduced, including micro-extrusion and light-based methods. The course also presents the latest trends and future directions in bioprinting research currently being pursued in both industry and academia.
Biomaterial Requirements for 3D Bioprinting
- Understanding of the properties of various biomaterials used in bioprinting is developed. Particular emphasis is placed on the physicochemical properties of synthetic polymers and natural polymers, and why these materials are suitable for printing. Differences in printing conditions and processes based on curing mechanisms are discussed, along with post-processing techniques that ensure the structural stability and precision of printed constructs.
Design and Application of Bioink Materials for 3D Bioprinting
- The course investigates the types and fabrication methods of artificially synthesized bioink materials, followed by the characteristics and application examples of bioinks derived from natural sources. Additionally, hybrid materials that combine synthetic and natural bioinks are explored to understand comprehensive approaches that meet diverse application requirements.
Understanding Cells and Tissues for 3D Bioprinting
- A theoretical foundation is established regarding the structure and function of cells and tissues targeted by bioprinting. The course also explores the microenvironment necessary for cellular interaction and functional expression, and discusses strategies in tissue engineering aimed at replicating these conditions in practice.