PULSE

Bioprinting in space

The PULSE project is developing a new bioprinting technology based on multiple levitation principles, using space to accelerate research into ageing on Earth. Bioprinting in space is a promising new research direction in biomanufacturing, as the microgravity environment offers several advantages. Tissues can be bioprinted using new levitation principles that allow greater compatibility with bio-inks and more complex 3D structures. Exploring these methods in space will advance biomanufacturing and bioprinting technology, ideally leading to space bioprinters that are safe, automated, compact and user-friendly. In space, bioprinted tissues will be exposed to microgravity and cosmic radiation, making them an excellent model for studying pathophysiological phenomena such as the ageing of tissues on Earth and the consequences for crews on space missions. As a proof-of-concept study, the project is using new bioprinting technology to create 3D cardiac in vitro models that better mimic cardiac physiology compared to organoids. PULSE will use these models to study cardiac ageing and to test the efficacy of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant drugs with anti-ageing potential.