Enthusiastic portrayal of 3D bioprinting in the media: Ethical side effects

Abstract

There has been a surge in mass media reports extolling the potential for using three-dimensional printing of biomaterials (3D bioprinting) to treat a wide range of clinical conditions. Given that mass media is recognized as one of the most important sources of health and medical information for the general public, especially prospective patients, we report and discuss the ethical consequences of coverage of 3D bioprinting in the media. First, we illustrate how positive mass media narratives of a similar biofabricated technology, namely the Macchiarini scaffold tracheas, which was involved in lethal experimental human trials, influenced potential patient perceptions. Second, we report and analyze the positively biased and enthusiastic portrayal of 3D bioprinting in mass media. Third, we examine the lack of regulation and absence of discussion about risks associated with bioprinting technology. Fourth, we explore how media misunderstanding is dangerously misleading the narrative about the technology.

Bioethical and Legal Issues in 3D Bioprinting

“…3D bioprinting deserves special attention as the utilization of viable cells in the printing process creates particular ethical and regulatory problems[ 24 , 25 ]. The “cell” is the most important component of bioprinting.…”

Cardiac patch transplantation instruments for robotic minimally invasive cardiac surgery: initial proof-of-concept designs and surgery in a porcine cadaver [preprint]

“…Otherwise is it possible that bioengineers will unveil a new treatment which is limited by the practical consideration of how to transplant it (1). It is important to re-emphasise that the work herein is early stage, because over-inflation of expectations has been identified as a harmful ethical pitfall in the field of regenerative medicine (23)(24)(25). Nonetheless, the earlystage proof-of-concept work herein represents a first step on a pathway to achieving minimally invasive robotic cardiac patch transplant.…”

Organoids: a systematic review of ethical issues

“…The overemphasis on brain organoids in the representation of organoid technology in popular media is concerning, because it is not clear how this influences public opinion, and it might lead to fears or concerns regarding organoids. Gilbert et al [ 115 ] warn against inaccurate portrayal of new technologies in mass media, and the influence on the public this may have. When inaccurate ideas about applications of organoids are reinforced, this could potentially increase the ‘Yuck factor’ [ 114 , 116 ].…”