The discovery of iPS cells (that can differentiate into many different types of cells) as well as the development of cell encapsulation technologies (that encapsulate cells using semi-permeable membranes or gels), opened the new door to the realization of regenerative medicine/cell therapy. Along with this, there have been significant advancements in research and development of three-dimensional (3D) biological tissue construction and cell encapsulation technologies.
º£½ÇÉçÇøhas successfully developed cell-friendly inkjet printhead that allows the production of fine droplets. By applying this technology, we then enabled the uniform and high-throughput production of encapsulated cells in desired sizes, even at high volumes, without harming the cells. Additionally, by combining precise cell-dispensing technology, we are working on a realization of functional 3D human tissues.
º£½ÇÉçÇøhas been focusing on the development of new inkjet printhead and bioink for printing of living cells. These technologies enabled the development of a cell-friendly inkjet-based bio-printing technology that reduces stress on the cells.
Cell layering - Regenerative medicine × Ricoh
By leveraging our own existing printing technology, º£½ÇÉçÇøhas developed the "Bio 3D Printer" that enables cell friendly high-precision/high-throughput printing as well as the application of advanced cell encapsulation techniques. º£½ÇÉçÇøhopes to contribute to the further development of drug discovery and regenerative medicine, including alternatives to animal testing.
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