In 2024, researchers in Brazil successfully utilized 3D printing to create an artificial skin model known as the Human Skin Equivalent with Hypodermis (HSEH), which closely replicates the characteristics of natural human skin. This model has potential applications in studying treatments for wounds, burns, and other medical conditions, as well as in the development of pharmaceuticals and cosmetics without relying on animal testing. The incorporation of 3D printing into medical research and healthcare is opening new pathways for advancements that are more accurate, ethical, and cost-efficient.
Brazil is also placing strong emphasis on the use of 3D and 4D printing in bioprinting, with ongoing research focused on producing tissues and organs for transplantation to tackle the country's persistent organ shortage. Institutions like the Institute of Biomedical Engineering and the University of São Paulo (USP) are working together on projects that aim to create bio-printed tissues capable of functioning as human organs. This research holds promise for significant progress in regenerative medicine by enabling the fabrication of customized organs or tissues tailored to individual patients, thereby minimizing rejection risks and enhancing long-term success.
Moreover, 4D printing technology is advancing the development of medical devices and implants in Brazil. These 4D-printed devices—including prosthetics, implants, and orthotics—can adapt and transform over time to meet patients’ changing needs. For instance, a 4D-printed prosthetic limb could adjust as a child grows or as an adult’s body undergoes changes, ensuring a better fit and increased comfort. This adaptability is especially beneficial for patients who require regular adjustments to their prosthetics due to variations in body size, muscle condition, or joint alignment, potentially reducing the frequency of replacements and costly modifications.
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