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🇧🇪 Belgium /Health & Science

First Nerve Implants Printed in Space Using Belgian Bio-Ink

From VRT NWS · () Dutch

Translated from Dutch, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • An American company successfully printed nerve implants using bio-ink from Ghent, Belgium, aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
  • This marks a first in space-based bioprinting of nerve tissue.
  • The technology aims to help nerves regenerate and is seen as a significant step for space medicine.

In a groundbreaking achievement for space medicine, an American company has successfully bioprinted nerve implants using a specialized bio-ink developed in Ghent, Belgium, aboard the International Space Station (ISS).

This marks the first time nerve tissue has been printed in space. The bio-ink, created by the Ghent-based company Bio Inx, contains cells capable of promoting nerve regeneration. The successful printing of these implants represents a significant advancement in the field of regenerative medicine, particularly in the challenging environment of space.

Jasper Van Hoorick from Bio Inx described the development as a "important step for medicine in space." The ability to print functional biological tissues in microgravity could pave the way for new medical treatments and research opportunities for astronauts, potentially addressing health issues that arise during long-duration space missions.

This is an important step for medicine in space.

— Jasper Van HoorickA Bio Inx representative commenting on the significance of printing nerve implants in space.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by VRT NWS in Dutch. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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