3D bioprinting as a designer organoid to assess pathological processes in translational medicine

3D bioprinting is an additive manufacturing method, formulated with cells printed in bioinks of basic matrix such as hydrogels. Bioinks are relevant to precision medicine mainly due to recapitulation of tissue organoids with broad application. 3D bioprinting can address the issue of increased cost in drug development with overall benefit in healthcare. Despite research, solid and hematological cancer remain a clinical problem. Existing models such as patient-derived xenografts and organoids, although beneficial, have limitations. This perspective discusses 3D bioprinting in key clinical issues to hasten treatment to patients. The diseases addressed are aging, cancer metastasis, cancer dormancy and drug screening. The perspective also discusses the application for other diseases and the future for 3D bioprinting in medicine. Plain language summary Rapid translation of science to patients requires cost-effective methods to screen potential drugs. One of these methods is to use 3D bioprinting. This method used particular components to suit the organ, called bioink. The type of bioink used has to be considered for if the printed material can accommodate the cells of that organ. In this regard, 3D-printing methods are emerging as key preclinical methods in precision medicine. The printed organs can be used to screen drugs, test responses to drugs during treatment and could even identify combinations of drugs to ensure response. These methods will be important for all diseases in particular for patients with all types of cancers and stage, metastasis and age-associated disorders.