Step 3
Post-processing
Realistically, printed tissue constructs should grow and develop in a wet environment, similar to native conditions. To achieve this state, perfusion devices such as a bioreactor are needed that enable cell survival. The printed tissue construct should ideally rapidly self-assemble, mature and differentiate to the desired functional organ. It is at this step that the developing organ be subjected to chemical and biomechanical conditioning for proper development and accelerated tissue maturation according to specially defined parameters (i.e. perfusion media and regime). The growth and maturation of the organ should be monitored non-invasively to ensure successful development.
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