Satellite-based On-orbit Printing of 3d Tumor Models.

Space three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting provides a precise and bionic tumor model for evaluating the compound effect of the space environment on tumors, thereby providing insight into the progress of the disease and potential treatments. However, space 3D bioprinting faces several challenges, including prelaunch uncertainty, possible liquid leakage, long-term culture in space, automatic equipment control, data acquisition, and transmission. Here, we developed a novel satellite-based 3D bioprinting device with high structural strength, small volume, and low weight (< 6 kg). We developed a microgel-based biphasic thermosensitive (MBT) bioink and suspension medium that supported the on-orbit printing and in situ culture of complex tumor models. We developed an intelligent control algorithm that enables the automatic control of 3D printing, autofocusing, fluorescence imaging, and data transfer back to the ground. To our knowledge, this is the first time that on-orbit printing of tumor models has been achieved in space with stable morphology and moderate viability via a satellite. We found that 3D tumor models were more sensitive to antitumor drugs in space than on Earth. This study opens up a new avenue for 3D bioprinting in space and offers new possibilities for future research in space life science and medicine. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.