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When people think of coral, most typically conjure scenes of vividly colored underwater reefs, not operating rooms and orthopedic implants. But, according to researchers at the National University of Singapore (NUS) Centre of Additive Manufacturing, these fascinating oceanic lifeforms could hold a promising future in the world of medical implants. NUS recently announced its partnership with Popeye Marine Biotechnology, a Taiwan-based organization founded with the goal of developing ocean resources for medical uses. The collaboration will develop a novel method for creating 3D-printed human implants by using cultured corals as a foundational material.
Coral has seen wider use for medical purposes in recent years, ranging from diagnostic devices to the development of new medicines. With traits like high biocompatibility and their naturally strong and connected network of pores, these marine invertebrates are increasingly seen as a desirable material for bone implants. Coral-based implants have the potential to usher in a future in orthopedics without the use of autografts and allografts, animal bones and synthetic implants, according to the researchers. They’re also evaluating the potential of cultured corals for tissue engineering.
With traits like high biocompatibility and their naturally strong and connected network of pores, corals are increasingly seen as a desirable material for bone implants.
NUS and Popeye signed an International Technology Development Agreement in late 2020 to explore the use of coral in medical implants, with Popeye agreeing to provide the NUS with 3D-printed implants, specialized materials for experimentation, and other resources and expertise. NUS Centre of Additive Manufacturing focuses on five main areas: surgical instruments, simulation & prosthetics; restorative repair and implants; AM enabled medicine; 3D bioprinting for tissue repair; and oral health and craniofacial applications.
