A groundbreaking 3D bioprinter developed by researchers at Newcastle University is set to redefine the landscape of drug discovery. This innovative device, capable of producing human-like tissues, promises to accelerate the development of treatments for diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and arthritis. The Reactive Jet Impingement (ReJI) bioprinting technology has garnered significant attention, leading to the establishment of a startup called Jetbio. By overcoming limitations of traditional bioprinting methods, this new approach offers faster and more accurate tissue models that closely resemble human tissues. Funded by Versus Arthritis, the project aims to enhance drug testing processes, potentially reducing the time and cost involved in bringing new therapies to market.

The journey toward this innovation began with the realization that conventional drug testing methods using flat 2D cell cultures were inadequate. These models failed to replicate the complex 3D interactions found within the human body. To address this issue, Professor Kenny Dalgarno and his team at Newcastle University devised a novel bioprinting technique. ReJI technology involves jetting two different liquids—containing cells suspended in a cross-linking solution and a polymer solution—at each other. As they meet mid-air, these liquids combine to form a hydrogel rich in cells, which can be printed on various surfaces. This method increases cell density by up to tenfold compared to existing bioprinters, significantly enhancing the accuracy of tissue models used in drug testing.

The implications of this breakthrough extend beyond pharmaceutical research. Lucy Donaldson, director of research at Versus Arthritis, highlighted the potential impact on the speed and quality of drug development. She noted that the technology could expedite the introduction of new treatments for conditions like arthritis, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases. Traditionally, drug discovery is a lengthy and expensive process, with only a fraction of tested compounds making it to market. By providing more realistic tissue models, ReJI bioprinting can improve the success rate of preclinical trials, ultimately benefiting patients worldwide.

In addition to its role in drug development, the technology holds promise for regenerative medicine. For instance, it could enhance Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation (ACI), a procedure used to repair cartilage damage in arthritis patients. The ability to create more precise and tailored cell cultures could lead to better outcomes for those suffering from joint pain and mobility issues. Moreover, the ReJI bioprinter's versatility allows it to be applied across a wide range of medical conditions. One notable example is the EC-funded REBORN project, where Newcastle researchers are developing an in vitro model of a heart chamber. This model combines ReJI bioprinting with other bioprocessing techniques to create a "sleeve" that mimics heart function, enabling the testing of new cardiac treatments.

The commercial prospects for Jetbio are promising, as the global demand for advanced bioprinting solutions continues to grow. The company recently showcased its technology to key figures in public health, including Chief Medical Officer for England, Professor Sir Chris Whitty, at the Houses of Parliament. The event generated considerable excitement about the potential of this technology to revolutionize healthcare. With plans to introduce the printers to laboratories in Bristol, Newcastle, and Cambridge, the future looks bright for this cutting-edge innovation. Ultimately, this advancement could make drug development more efficient and affordable, democratizing access to life-saving treatments for millions of people around the world.