4D Printing in Biomedical Engineering: Advancements, Challenges, and Future Directions

Date
2023-06-29
Authors
Ramezani, Maziar
Mohd Ripin, Zaidi
Supervisor
Item type
Journal Article
Degree name
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
MDPI AG
Abstract

4D printing has emerged as a transformative technology in the field of biomedical engineering, offering the potential for dynamic, stimuli-responsive structures with applications in tissue engineering, drug delivery, medical devices, and diagnostics. This review paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the advancements, challenges, and future directions of 4D printing in biomedical engineering. We discuss the development of smart materials, including stimuli-responsive polymers, shape-memory materials, and bio-inks, as well as the various fabrication techniques employed, such as direct-write assembly, stereolithography, and multi-material jetting. Despite the promising advances, several challenges persist, including material limitations related to biocompatibility, mechanical properties, and degradation rates; fabrication complexities arising from the integration of multiple materials, resolution and accuracy, and scalability; and regulatory and ethical considerations surrounding safety and efficacy. As we explore the future directions for 4D printing, we emphasise the need for material innovations, fabrication advancements, and emerging applications such as personalised medicine, nanomedicine, and bioelectronic devices. Interdisciplinary research and collaboration between material science, biology, engineering, regulatory agencies, and industry are essential for overcoming challenges and realising the full potential of 4D printing in the biomedical engineering landscape.

Description
Keywords
40 Engineering , 4003 Biomedical Engineering , Bioengineering , Generic health relevance , 0903 Biomedical Engineering , 1004 Medical Biotechnology , 4003 Biomedical engineering , 4018 Nanotechnology
Source
Journal of Functional Biomaterials, ISSN: 2079-4983 (Print); 2079-4983 (Online), MDPI AG, 14(7), 347-347. doi: 10.3390/jfb14070347
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