Researchers of Tel Aviv University (TAU) apply the art of origami to advance 3D bioprinting.
The Japanese art of paper folding (Origami) helps to develop an original and innovative solution for a problem troubling researchers worldwide: positioning sensors inside 3D-bioprinted tissue models. Instead of bioprinting tissue over the sensors (found to be impracticable) they design and produce an origami-inspired structure that folds around the fabricated tissue, allowing the insertion of sensors into precisely pre-defined locations.
The MSOP – Multi-Sensor Origami Platform
“The innovation is based on an original synergy between science with art. Using CAD (Computer Aided Design) software the researchers design a multi-sensing structure customized for a specific tissue model – inspired by origami paper folding. This structure incorporates various sensors for monitoring the electrical activity or resistance of cells in precisely chosen locations within the tissue. The computer model is used to manufacture a physical structure which is then folded around the bioprinted tissue – so that each sensor is inserted into its predefined position inside the tissue. The TAU team has named their novel platform MSOP – Multi-Sensor Origami Platform.“, explains the press release of TAU.
The exact origins of origami are unclear, but it is widely believed to have originated in China around the 1st century AD, shortly after the invention of paper. The art of paper folding then spread to Japan in the 6th century, where it developed into a sophisticated art form. Akira Yoshizawa (1911-2005) is called the ‘Grandmaster of Origami’.
Most significant achievements in origami include:
- The development of modular origami involves folding multiple identical units and assembling them into complex structures.
- The creation of realistic origami models of animals, plants, and other objects.
- The use of origami in scientific research, such as the study of protein folding.
- The incorporation of origami into modern design, such as architecture and product design.
Printing Neurons
The press release finally says that neurons can be printed, too. A major step to heal brain injuries but maybe also for those with mental disabilities like Down-Syndrom. “The new method’s effectiveness was demonstrated on 3D-bioprinted brain tissues, with the inserted sensors recording neuronal electrical activity. The researchers emphasize, however, that the system is both modular and versatile: it can place any number and any type of sensors in any chosen position within any type of 3D-bioprinted tissue model, as well as in tissues grown artificially in the lab such as brain organoids – small spheres of neurons simulating the human brain.”