Under a cooperative agreement, the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Chemical Biological Center (DEVCOM CBC) is working with the University of Hawaii (UH) System on two technology initiatives to support deployed forces. The focus is on the development of bio-based materials and additive manufacturing processes with the aim of improving operational capability under extreme conditions.
The core of the project is a research project on the use of bioprinting for medical and chemical-biological protection applications. The project is led by Dr. Jason Barnhill from the John A. Burns School of Medicine (JABSOM) at the University of Hawaii at Mānoa and bioengineer Priscilla Lee from DEVCOM CBC. The focus is on improved in-vitro models of organs that are to be realized through bio-assisted printing processes. The aim is to evaluate active substances against injuries, toxic gases and resistant germs in a more targeted manner.
The bioprinting process used is based on cell-based inks with which tissue structures such as skin layers are built up layer by layer. In addition to preclinical drug testing, the results will also be used to develop portable systems for decentralized applications. As part of USINDOPACOM, 3D printing is to be made usable in remote regions such as the Indo-Pacific using mobile production stations.
A second project under the same cooperation framework uses the infrastructure of the University of Hawaii system to further develop regional additive manufacturing capacities. The focus is on building a resilient supply network, strengthening local manufacturing capabilities and sharing knowledge between academic and military institutions.
“We are incredibly proud that Dr. Barnhill and Priscilla Lee are representing the University of Hawaii at Mānoa and DEVCOM CBC with these efforts that have the potential to save the lives of our frontline Soldiers and civilians across the world,” said Sam Shomaker, dean of University of Hawaii at Mānoa JABSOM. “By helping to introduce innovative biofabrication technology to even more remote areas, JABSOM is assisting in the mission across the Pacific and globally.”
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