Scientists have created a bioprinter tablet for tissue repair

Until now, ulcers, hemorrhages, and other internal soft tissue injuries have been treated only surgically. Such operations require anesthesia, intervention, and long-term recovery. The new MEDS (Magnetic Endoluminal Deposition System) technology promises to change this approach, making treatment almost non-invasive.

The MEDS device looks like a tiny ballpoint pen: inside there is a tank with bio—ink and a miniature mechanism. Instead of electronics, it responds to an infrared laser that activates the release of ink. The bioprinter is controlled by an external magnet, which allows doctors to precisely guide the capsule to the damaged area.

These biochernils are a living biogel obtained from natural polymers. It creates a protective layer on the wound and serves as a building material for the growth of new cells. In fact, it is a living bandage that is applied from within the body.

In laboratory conditions, a tablet was used to restore artificial ulcers based on imitation of stomach tissues and even to stop internal bleeding. The system was then tested on animals: the capsule successfully delivered bio-ink into the stomach of rabbits, and its movements were monitored using X-rays.

The results showed that the ink not only protects damage from the acidic environment of the stomach, but may also contain medicinal substances or living cells that accelerate healing. In experiments, they remained viable for more than two weeks, which is enough to stimulate the growth of new tissues.

The creation of a swallowable bioprinter is a step towards a new type of medicine where operations can be replaced with smart capsules. In the future, such devices will be able not only to treat ulcers, but also to repair vessels or abdominal tissues, reducing the need for surgery.

Project Manager Vivek Subramanian notes: “We combined the ideas of bioprinting and smart capsules. As a result, we got a new class of devices — a miniature bioprinter that you can just swallow.”