Human corneas have been 3D printed for the first time by scientists at Newcastle University. The researchers mixed stem cells from a healthy donor cornea with alginate, a gel derived from seaweed, and collagen to create a “Bio-ink” solution that can be printed. “What we have shows is that it is feasible to print corneas using co-ordinates taken from a patient’s eye,” said Che Connon, Professor of Tissue Engineering at Newcastle University, who led the work. The cornea, the outermost layer of the human eye, has an important role in focusing vision. Flat tissue has previously been created but, he said, this was the first time shaped corneas had been produced. The 3D printed corneas produced at the University’s Institute of Genetic Medicine will now have to undergo further testing but it is hoped the technique could be in regular use within five years. The shortfall in corneas available from organ donors has been compounded by the popularity of laser eye surgery, since corneas cannot be donated following this procedure.

Read the full article at Financial Times