Custom pizzas, coral reefs, space fabric — all are possible thanks to 3D printing. Next, the technique could give some people the gift of sight.
Scientists from Newcastle University have developed a “bio-ink” that allowed them to successfully 3D print human corneas. On Wednesday, they published their proof-of-concept research in the journal Experimental Eye Research.
The cornea is the outermost layer at the front of the eye. If it’s damaged by either disease or injury, a person can suffer vision problems or even lose their sight. The only treatment for a non-functioning cornea is a cornea transplant. But even though more than 15 million people need donor corneas, just 44,000 transplants are done every year — the demand far outweighs the supply.
That’s why 3D-printed corneas could be a game-changer.
