Issue 12, 2024

4D printing for biomedical applications

Abstract

While three-dimensional (3D) printing excels at fabricating static constructs, it fails to emulate the dynamic behavior of native tissues or the temporal programmability desired for medical devices. Four-dimensional (4D) printing is an advanced additive manufacturing technology capable of fabricating constructs that can undergo pre-programmed changes in shape, property, or functionality when exposed to specific stimuli. In this Perspective, we summarize the advances in materials chemistry, 3D printing strategies, and post-printing methodologies that collectively facilitate the realization of temporal dynamics within 4D-printed soft materials (hydrogels, shape-memory polymers, liquid crystalline elastomers), ceramics, and metals. We also discuss and present insights about the diverse biomedical applications of 4D printing, including tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, drug delivery, in vitro models, and medical devices. Finally, we discuss the current challenges and emphasize the importance of an application-driven design approach to enable the clinical translation and widespread adoption of 4D printing.

Graphical abstract: 4D printing for biomedical applications

Article information

Article type
Perspective
Submitted
02 1 2024
Accepted
27 2 2024
First published
27 2 2024

J. Mater. Chem. B, 2024,12, 2985-3005

4D printing for biomedical applications

A. Mandal and K. Chatterjee, J. Mater. Chem. B, 2024, 12, 2985 DOI: 10.1039/D4TB00006D

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