3D-printed blood vessels could unlock stroke mysteries: Researchers at the University of Sydney have developed a groundbreaking technique using 3D-printed blood vessels to study strokes. These vessels, crafted with precision, mimic the intricate vascular anatomy and blood flow behavior of the human body. The research, published in Advanced Materials, offers a promising avenue for understanding strokes and potentially revolutionizing treatment options for patients. PhD candidate Charles Zhao, a mechanical engineering expert, leads the project. He explains, 'We're not just printing blood vessels; we're printing hope for millions at risk of stroke worldwide. With continued support and collaboration, we aim to make personalized vascular medicine accessible to every patient who needs it.'
The team's innovative approach involves using CT scans as blueprints to create miniature carotid artery models, reducing manufacturing time from 10 hours to just two hours. Instead of traditional resin molds, they print directly onto glass slides, resulting in delicate, intricate structures. This method not only speeds up the process but also enhances accuracy, a crucial factor in stroke diagnosis.
The 'artery on a chip' successfully replicates real blood vessels, and simulations demonstrate natural blood flow patterns, a challenging aspect to reproduce. Dr. Zihao Wang, a postdoctoral engineer, highlights the significance of this bioengineering achievement in Australia, aiming to bridge gaps in heart disease prediction without relying on animal models.
During testing, researchers observed platelet behavior and clot formation in real-time. Areas with higher mechanical stress, often associated with hypertension and atherosclerosis, exhibited increased platelet movement, a critical factor in stroke risk. Professor Arnold Ju and Helen Zhao emphasize the next step: integrating AI to create digital twins that can predict strokes before they occur. This vision includes using AI to analyze patient CT scans, rapidly printing blood vessel models, testing blood responses, and forecasting stroke risk years in advance.
The project is a collaborative effort involving the School of Biomedical Engineering, Charles Perkins Centre, and the Heart Research Institute, supported by the Snow Medical Research Foundation and the National Heart Foundation. This cutting-edge research not only holds promise for stroke understanding but also opens doors to personalized vascular medicine, potentially transforming the way we approach stroke treatment and prevention.
