Rising to the challenge: applying biofabrication approaches for better drug and chemical product development

Abstract

Many industrial sectors, from pharmaceuticals to consumer products, are required to provide data on their products to demonstrate their efficacy and that they are safe for patients, consumers and the environment. This period of testing typically requires the use of animal models, the validity of which has been called into question due to the high rates of attrition across many industries. There is increasing recognition of the limitations of animal models and demands for safety and efficacy testing paradigms which embrace the latest technological advances and knowledge of human biology. This perspective article highlights the potential for biofabrication approaches (encompassing bioprinting and bioassembly strategies) to meet these needs and provides case studies from three different industry sectors to demonstrate the potential for new markets in the bioprinting community. We also present a series of recommendations to create a thriving bioprinting environment. One that operates at the forefront of science, technology and innovation to deliver improved decision-making tools for the more rapid development of medicines, agrichemicals, chemicals and consumer products, and which may reduce our reliance on animals.

3D bioactive composite scaffolds for bone tissue engineering

“…Despite extensive research and several thousand papers published on bone and cartilage tissue regeneration, autologous bone grafts continue to represent the gold standard treatment for critical-sized bone defects. Several factors have contributed to the slow translation of research from the bench side to the bedside, including technical, collaborative and regulatory issues [192] , [432] , [433] .…”

Nanoclay-based 3D printed scaffolds promote vascular ingrowth ex vivo and generate bone mineral tissue in vitro and in vivo

“…Computer-aided cell and biomaterial deposition, namely 3D bioprinting, has shown significant capacity in manufacturing complex and hierarchically organised constructs able to closely mimic bone structure [1]. Thus, bioprinted constructs offer the potential to replace damaged tissue or as an in vitro drug screening platform [2].…”

Current and Future Perspectives on Skin Tissue Engineering: Key Features of Biomedical Research, Translational Assessment, and Clinical Application

“…Therefore, it is important to highlight their role in the advancement of this field. Skin care products, cosmetics, and other topical agents have been traditionally tested in animal models; publications assessing skin corrosion and irritation (such as the Draize rabbit skin irritation test) date back to as early as the 1940s . These testing methods have since evolved, in large part thanks to investments into developing alternative models to in vivo animal and ex vivo human skin approaches.…”

“…A critical turning point occurred in the early 2000s with the introduction of the EU's 7th Amendment to the Cosmetics Directive. This amendment prohibited animal testing of finished products or cosmetic ingredients, introducing a marketing ban regardless of the availability of alternative nonanimal tests . Industry was thus forced to find alternatives or develop new methods.…”