Bioprinting has begun to revolutionize the field of medical research by enabling the mass production of 3D biomimetic cell culture models. Driving this revolution is the development of new types of biomaterials known as bioinks. A thickening agent is often utilized within bioink formulations which can impact cell viability. Bioprinting in microgravity addresses this limitation by allowing the use of lower viscosity bioinks at relevant protein concentrations for a specific tissue. In addition, microgravity stem cell cultures grow in 3D, mimicking human cell-cell interactions and growing at higher fidelity and responsiveness compared to terrestrial, 2D cell cultures, making them better for drug development. Great interest has been focused on developing 3D cell culture models that can mimic and eventually replace the use of animal models in drug development as well as contribute to artificial organ development.

The objective for this flight test is to create a bioprinter that prints 3D droplets using microgravity-condition cells/bioink mixtures and to examine and compare how cells printed in 0 g interface with a bioink matrix versus ground-printed (1 g) cells.

Cost-effective alternative to animal studies; could contribute to artificial organ development
Commercial space industry
Medical industry
Pharmaceutical industry
Biotech industry