Here's the paper's abstract:
The ability to three-dimensionally interweave biological tissue with functional electronics could enable the creation of bionic organs possessing enhanced functionalities over their human counterparts. However, current electronics are inherently two dimensional, preventing seamless multidimensional integration with biology as the processes and materials used to structure synthetic tissue constructs and conventional electronic devices are very different. Here, we present a novel strategy for overcoming these difficulties via additive manufacturing of biological cells with structural and nanoparticle derived electronic elements. As a proof of concept, we generated a bionic ear via 3D printing of a cell-seeded hydrogel matrix in the precise anatomic geometry of a human ear, along with an intertwined conducting polymer consisting of infused silver nanoparticles. This allowed for the in vitro culturing of cartilage tissue around an inductive coil antenna in the ear, which subsequently connects to cochlear-like electrodes. The printed ear exhibits enhanced auditory sensing for radio frequency reception, and complementary left and right ears can listen to stereo audio music. Overall, our approach suggests a means to intricately merge biologic and nanoelectronic functionalities via 3D printing.
I really hope they name the first commercially-available production model The Jaime Sommers.
Or even The Rudy Wells.
Also awesome: The Van Gogh.
Available in three designs: Friends, Romans, and Countrymen. Or perhaps they should name the biotech subsidiary FRC.
Seriously, I should work for their marketing department.
Via i09.
No comments:
Post a Comment