3D Bioprinting 2014-2024: Applications and Markets

3D bioprinting is an emerging set of technologies which sit at the interface between engineering and the biological and medical sciences. Each of the different approaches to 3D bioprinting share the common aim of generating 3-dimensional models of functional living tissue which can more accurately mimic that existing inside a living human (in vivo) than the current 2-dimensional tissue models commonly employed in a number of areas. The possible applications of 3D bioprinting are multiple and encompass the fields of drug discovery, tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, cosmetic/personal product testing, biosensors, dental and animal/food products. Ultimately, even potentially the printing of fully functional human organs for transplant may one day be possible. This broad range of possible uses of 3D bioprinting translates into a potentially very large opportunity, with addressable markets currently valued in excess of $150B.