Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have created acoustic tweezers that allow for 3D bioprinted cells to be moved more effectively and safely.
The paper titled “Three-dimensional manipulation of single cells using surface acoustic waves” describes a method where standing-wave phase shifts are used to move particles or cells in-plane. The amplitude of acoustic vibrations is used to control the movement of the particles in an orthogonal plane.
“We use 3D acoustic tweezers to pick up single cells, or entire cell assemblies, and deliver them to desired locations to create 2D and 3D cell patterns, or print the cells into complex shapes.”
This new method has proven to offer more accurate and noninvasive performance when compared with other cell manipulation techniques. According to the researchers it has the potential to accurately print 3D multi-cellular structures for applications in tissue engineering, biomanufacturing, regenerative medicine or neuroscience.
Subscribe to our Newsletter
3DPResso is a weekly newsletter that links to the most exciting global stories from the 3D printing and additive manufacturing industry.
