In the next few years, the bioprinting industry is projected to grow exponentially, with estimates suggesting a 17 percent annual expansion, reaching over $5.20 billion by 2030, according to Meticulous Research. Despite early predictions, 3D bioprinting has progressed at a slower pace than anticipated in the last decade. Forecasts from ten years ago painted a much more optimistic picture for 2024-2025, which has not materialized.
The Future of Bioprinting: Tissues Over Organs
Lab-grown organs could revolutionize healthcare by eliminating the need for animal or human testing, addressing organ shortages, and alleviating the challenges of organ donation worldwide. The concept of bioprinting could potentially render scenarios like those in the movie The Island obsolete. In the future, the focus may shift towards specific tissues or organ parts rather than fully cloned humans as sources of backup organs or surrogate mothers.
Understanding 3D Bioprinting
3D bioprinting is an innovative technology that has emerged in recent years, enabling the creation of living tissues like blood vessels, bones, hearts, and skin through additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing. Unlike traditional printing, bioprinting requires not only living cells but also a conducive environment to sustain them, including essential nutrients like food, water, and oxygen. Researchers typically use a microgel enriched with vital compounds to support cell growth around 3-D scaffolds made of biodegradable polymers or collagen.
The Landscape of Bioprinting Companies
Bioprinting is a complex and time-consuming process, making mass production unlikely in the near future. Synthetic tissues like artificial skin, bionic ears, bladders, and corneas are more feasible targets for bioprinting or lab-based growth due to their simpler composition. As technology advances, tissue engineering is likely to precede the printing of complete organs.
Exploring Key Bioprinting Players
Despite the challenging technological and regulatory environment, a select number of companies are at the forefront of bioprinting innovation. These enterprises are paving the way for future advancements in the field of healthcare. Let's take a closer look at some of the prominent bioprinting companies and their recent developments:
1) Organovo
Update 2024: Organovo has shifted its focus towards drug development and disease modeling, moving away from its initial emphasis on bioprinting liver and kidney models. The company has made significant strides in utilizing 3D bioprinting technology for medical research and therapeutic applications.
2) CELLINK
Update 2024: CELLINK has emerged as a leader in the bioprinting space, with diverse applications ranging from hair follicle bioprinting to personalized cancer drug development. The company continues to innovate through strategic partnerships and acquisitions in the healthcare sector.
3) Aspect Biosystems
Update 2024: Aspect Biosystems has secured substantial investments to advance its capabilities in clinical biomanufacturing and tissue therapeutics. Collaborations with industry leaders like Novo Nordisk underscore the company's commitment to developing innovative solutions for metabolic and endocrine diseases.
4) Cyfuse Biomedical
Update 2024: Cyfuse Biomedical has maintained a relatively low profile, with limited updates in English-language channels. The company's focus on scaffold-free tissue fabrication positions it as a unique player in the bioprinting landscape.
5) TeVido Biodevices
Update 2024: TeVido Biodevices has unfortunately ceased operations, marking a shift in the bioprinting market dynamics. The company's innovative approaches to reconstructive and cosmetic surgeries leave a legacy in the field of personalized healthcare.
6) Digilab
Update 2024: Digilab has also exited the bioprinting arena, signaling the evolving nature of the industry. The company's contributions to clinical diagnostics and life sciences underscore the diverse applications of bioprinting technologies.
7) Advanced Solutions Life Sciences
Update 2024: Advanced Solutions Life Sciences continues to push the boundaries of 3D biofabrication, with groundbreaking projects like the creation of bioengineered human hearts. The company's focus on supporting bioprinting teams and research facilities highlights its commitment to advancing medical technologies.
8) TRS – Tissue Regeneration Systems
Update 2024: TRS appears to have ceased operations, reflecting the dynamic nature of the bioprinting industry. The company's innovative approaches to skeletal reconstruction and bone regeneration have left a lasting impact on the field.
9) nScrypt
Update 2024: nScrypt has shifted its focus to space and electronics projects, showcasing the versatility of its technology. The company's expertise in micro-dispensing 3D printing has opened new avenues for innovation across various industries.
10) EnvisionTEC
Update 2024: EnvisionTEC's acquisition by Desktop Metal has brought about significant changes in its strategic direction. The company's bioprinting technology now complements its offerings in the dental segment, reflecting a broader scope of applications in healthcare.
These dynamic developments underscore the evolving landscape of bioprinting companies and the transformative potential of their technologies in shaping the future of healthcare.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the Difference Between Naturopathic Medicine & Holistic Medicine.
The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine relies on drugs or surgery for its primary treatments. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. CAM should not be considered as a replacement for traditional treatment. Instead, CAM can help patients take control of their health by helping them choose the best option.
On the other hand, naturopathy is used to complement conventional medical practices. It treats the whole person, including mind and soul. There are many kinds of naturopathy.
It is important for you to know that some CAM modalities can overlap with conventional medicine. Both doctors and naturopaths may prescribe herbal remedies. But, naturopaths are more concerned with lifestyle changes than prescribing medications.
Naturopathy is often called “complementary” because it complements conventional medicine, not supplants it. Naturopaths could prescribe medication, if needed.
There are some differences in naturopathic medicine from other CAM modalities.
- Naturopaths are not qualified to prescribe or diagnose medication.
- Naturopaths can refer patients to specialists and work with their family physician.
- Naturopathic physicians are licensed by their respective provinces, while CAM practitioners are selfregulated.
- Naturopathy focuses on prevention and wellness and offers education about diet, exercise, and nutrition.
- Naturopaths place a strong emphasis on lifestyle factors. These include nutrition, exercise, stress management, sleep, nutrition, and mental well being.
- Naturopharmacists specialize in the use of botanicals and minerals to treat specific conditions.
- Naturopodists have the ability to offer individualized care that is tailored to each patient's needs.
- The College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario issues licenses for Naturopaths.
- Naturopatrists are licensed by provincial regulatory bodies.
- The Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors has registered Naturopaticians.
- The College of Naturopaths of British Columbia is responsible for licensing Naturotherapists.
- The United States National Board of Medical Examiners licenses Naturobiotic therapists.
- The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency grants licenses to homeopaths.
- The belief that all aspects should be considered in making health decisions is called “holistic”. Holistic doctors will take into account all aspects of life, rather than focusing on one.
What Is Alternative Medicine?
It's a method of healing that focuses more on prevention than treatment. It encourages people become educated consumers who are actively involved in improving their overall health and well-being.
Alternative medicine refers only to any type of treatment and diagnosis that does NOT use allopathic (conventional).
Who uses alternative medicine
Alternative medicine is used for many reasons.
- They are keen to avoid surgery and harmful drugs.
- They believe natural remedies work best.
- They prefer noninvasive treatments.
- They are looking to spend less.
- They feel more at ease using natural products
- They desire greater control over their healthcare decisions.
- They want to take responsibility for their health.
- They want a healthier world.
- They want less stress in their lives.
- They want greater freedom in choosing their doctors and their healthcare plans.
- They want their children receive a better education.
- They want healthy food and good nutrition for their family.
- They need safe and effective medications.
Statistics
- According to a 2005 book by a US [116]Institute of Medicine panel, the number of RCTs focused on CAM has risen dramatically. (en.wikipedia.org)
- A 15-year systematic review published in 2022 on the global acceptance and use of CAM among medical specialists found the overall acceptance of CAM at 52% and the overall use at 45%. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- PubMed: The rise and rise in complementary and alternative medicine: A sociological perspective
- PubMed – Holistic medicine
webmd.com
liebertpub.com
- Games for Health Journal
- The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine – A systematic review of randomized controlled trials involving acupuncture for insomnia treatment
cam.cancer.gov
How To
What are the Shortcomings and Advances in Holistic Medicine?
Holistic medicine, a type of medical practice, emphasizes the importance and interdependence of mind, spirit, environment, social factors, and the healing process. It was created by Dr. Edward Bach (1886-1936), whose first book, The Doctor's Book of Mind Cure (1924), describes the process. He used simple techniques, such as visualization, meditation, and even hypnosis. People with stress, anxiety, depression or pain experienced this treatment. In addition, this kind of therapy helps patients cope with their problems and improve their quality of life.
While holistic therapies are still being used today, there is not enough evidence to support their effectiveness. However, studies show these treatments can help to relieve chronic conditions like diabetes, asthma, arthritis and other ailments.
The advancements and the shortcomings of holistic medicine can be seen in:
- Insufficient scientific evidence. A small number of well-designed randomized controlled trials, (RCTs), evaluate the health benefits of holistic treatments. Positive results are the norm in most observational studies.
- Alternative medicine is less expensive than conventional medicine. Some alternative medicines are cheaper than traditional ones, especially when the patient follows a natural diet.
- Patients don't feel pressured to follow the prescribed protocol.
- Many doctors recommend complementary treatments without prescribing them.
- Holistic treatments are often combined with conventional medicine. Acupuncture is often combined with medications or surgery.
- Many people believe alternative therapies work better than traditional medicine.
- Alternative drugs are considered more natural and less harmful than traditional drugs.
- Many patients seek out complementary therapies to help them adapt their lifestyles. They want to be healthy but also want to enjoy their lives.
- Patients who follow holistic treatments tend to be healthier.
- Older adults are increasingly turning to holistic treatments.
- More research needs to be conducted on complementary treatments.
- Studies show that most people prefer alternative treatments to going to the doctor.
- It is important for doctors to realize that not all patients will benefit equally from alternate treatments.
- Holistic treatments should be part of our culture and education system.
- Holistic treatments may not be safe for all.
- So that patients can make informed decisions, we must be able to communicate with them about the various therapies.
- Holistic treatment is not for hippies only.
- Certain diseases are not cured by holistic therapies.
- Sometimes, holistic treatments can be dangerous.
- Holistic treatments are helpful for specific conditions.
- Holistic treatments can be very effective.
- Holistic treatments are based off ancient wisdom.
- Holistic treatments are easy to learn.
- Holistic treatments are difficult to learn.
- It can be hard to learn holistic therapies.
- Holistic treatments can be too costly.
- Holistic treatments can be very costly.
- Holistic treatments can be less expensive than conventional medicines.
- Holistic treatments can be more expensive than conventional medicines.
****
Holistic Medicine–A Brief History
Holistic medicine is a system of healing that focuses on treating the whole person instead of just their symptoms. Holistic medicine includes all aspects of a person's life, including their physical, emotional, psychological, spiritual, occupational and cultural influences. It emphasizes prevention rather than cure and aims to prevent disease through diet, exercise, relaxation, stress management, etc.
Bastyr University in Seattle established the first holistic medical school in 1972. After Dr. Andrew Weil's 1996 book, “Spontaneous Healing”, holistic medicine started to flourish. Dr. David Williams, and Dr. Michael Murray founded the American Holistic Medical Association in 1997. There are hundreds of holistic medicine schools all over the world, including Bastyr University in Columbia, Columbia College of Physicians & Surgeons and Maharishi Ayurveda Institute.
In 2013, the World Health Organization declared holistic medicine one of the five major trends in healthcare. This trend integrates conventional care with complementary therapies like homeopathy, acupuncture or herbalism, massage, therapy, reiki, yoga and meditation. This integration will provide safe, effective and patient-centered care with minimal side effects.
Holistic medicine works because of the interconnectedness of our body, mind, and spirit. When any of these three parts are out of balance, illness occurs. Take, for example:
Anxiety and stress can make you anxious, causing you to feel tense or out of balance. Your body reacts by making cortisol. This hormone increases inflammation throughout your body. As a result, you feel tired, weak, and sick.
If your emotions run high, you may experience negative feelings and thoughts like fear, anger, grief, or sadness. These emotions can cause stress in the brain. If left untreated, this stress causes your body to produce adrenaline and cortisol. Adrenaline is a stimulant of your heart beat, blood pressure, as well as breathing rate. Cortisol affects your immune system, digestive tract, and nervous system. Both hormones can lead to fatigue, muscle tension headaches and dizziness, anxiety, depression, and other health issues.
You can lose your faith and hope in life if you feel depressed. It is possible to lack self-esteem or confidence. This can lead to poor eating habits, unhealthy relationship patterns, and low energy. Your spirit will make you feel happy, cheerful, peaceful, optimistic, and positive.
Difference between allopathic and alternative medicine
Allopathic medicine is based on the scientific method. Doctors use xrays to diagnose patients. They prescribe medications for treatment and surgery when needed. Allopathic doctors believe they are able to diagnose and treat illness. Alternative medicine can be used for vitamins, minerals, diet and exercise. Alternative medicine does not have a defined definition. Some people call it natural medicine, integrative medicine, and complementary medicine. Others refer to it as traditional medicine, naturopathic medicine, and CAM.
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This blog is a source of general information and discussion on health and related topics. Information and materials on this blog, on the website, or in any of the connected materials are not intended to replace or used as a substitute for the advice of a medical professional, diagnosis, or treatment. This blog does not represent the application of any nursing, medical or other health professional advice or diagnosis. We are unable to diagnose health conditions, offer second opinions or provide specific treatment recommendations via this blog or on our website.
If you or another person is suffering from a medical issue and you are concerned, consult your doctor or seek out other medical professional treatment as soon as possible. Do not disregard medical advice from a professional or delay seeking it due to information you seen on the blog or website or in any of the linked materials. If you're experiencing an emergency medical situation, dial 911 or seek emergency medical assistance on the closest phone immediately.
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By: berci.mesko
Title: The Leading Bioprinting Companies Shaping the Future of Healthcare
Sourced From: medicalfuturist.com/top-bioprinting-companies
Published Date: Thu, 15 Aug 2024 13:44:36 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the Difference Between Naturopathic Medicine & Holistic Medicine.
The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine relies on drugs or surgery for its primary treatments. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. CAM should not be considered as a replacement for traditional treatment. Instead, CAM can help patients take control of their health by helping them choose the best option.
On the other hand, naturopathy is used to complement conventional medical practices. It treats the whole person, including mind and soul. There are many kinds of naturopathy.
It is important for you to know that some CAM modalities can overlap with conventional medicine. Both doctors and naturopaths may prescribe herbal remedies. But, naturopaths are more concerned with lifestyle changes than prescribing medications.
Naturopathy is often called “complementary” because it complements conventional medicine, not supplants it. Naturopaths could prescribe medication, if needed.
There are some differences in naturopathic medicine from other CAM modalities.
- Naturopaths are not qualified to prescribe or diagnose medication.
- Naturopaths can refer patients to specialists and work with their family physician.
- Naturopathic physicians are licensed by their respective provinces, while CAM practitioners are selfregulated.
- Naturopathy focuses on prevention and wellness and offers education about diet, exercise, and nutrition.
- Naturopaths place a strong emphasis on lifestyle factors. These include nutrition, exercise, stress management, sleep, nutrition, and mental well being.
- Naturopharmacists specialize in the use of botanicals and minerals to treat specific conditions.
- Naturopodists have the ability to offer individualized care that is tailored to each patient's needs.
- The College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario issues licenses for Naturopaths.
- Naturopatrists are licensed by provincial regulatory bodies.
- The Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors has registered Naturopaticians.
- The College of Naturopaths of British Columbia is responsible for licensing Naturotherapists.
- The United States National Board of Medical Examiners licenses Naturobiotic therapists.
- The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency grants licenses to homeopaths.
- The belief that all aspects should be considered in making health decisions is called “holistic”. Holistic doctors will take into account all aspects of life, rather than focusing on one.
What Is Alternative Medicine?
It's a method of healing that focuses more on prevention than treatment. It encourages people become educated consumers who are actively involved in improving their overall health and well-being.
Alternative medicine refers only to any type of treatment and diagnosis that does NOT use allopathic (conventional).
Who uses alternative medicine
Alternative medicine is used for many reasons.
- They are keen to avoid surgery and harmful drugs.
- They believe natural remedies work best.
- They prefer noninvasive treatments.
- They are looking to spend less.
- They feel more at ease using natural products
- They desire greater control over their healthcare decisions.
- They want to take responsibility for their health.
- They want a healthier world.
- They want less stress in their lives.
- They want greater freedom in choosing their doctors and their healthcare plans.
- They want their children receive a better education.
- They want healthy food and good nutrition for their family.
- They need safe and effective medications.
Statistics
- According to a 2005 book by a US [116]Institute of Medicine panel, the number of RCTs focused on CAM has risen dramatically. (en.wikipedia.org)
- A 15-year systematic review published in 2022 on the global acceptance and use of CAM among medical specialists found the overall acceptance of CAM at 52% and the overall use at 45%. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- PubMed: The rise and rise in complementary and alternative medicine: A sociological perspective
- PubMed – Holistic medicine
webmd.com
liebertpub.com
- Games for Health Journal
- The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine – A systematic review of randomized controlled trials involving acupuncture for insomnia treatment
cam.cancer.gov
How To
What are the Shortcomings and Advances in Holistic Medicine?
Holistic medicine, a type of medical practice, emphasizes the importance and interdependence of mind, spirit, environment, social factors, and the healing process. It was created by Dr. Edward Bach (1886-1936), whose first book, The Doctor's Book of Mind Cure (1924), describes the process. He used simple techniques, such as visualization, meditation, and even hypnosis. People with stress, anxiety, depression or pain experienced this treatment. In addition, this kind of therapy helps patients cope with their problems and improve their quality of life.
While holistic therapies are still being used today, there is not enough evidence to support their effectiveness. However, studies show these treatments can help to relieve chronic conditions like diabetes, asthma, arthritis and other ailments.
The advancements and the shortcomings of holistic medicine can be seen in:
- Insufficient scientific evidence. A small number of well-designed randomized controlled trials, (RCTs), evaluate the health benefits of holistic treatments. Positive results are the norm in most observational studies.
- Alternative medicine is less expensive than conventional medicine. Some alternative medicines are cheaper than traditional ones, especially when the patient follows a natural diet.
- Patients don't feel pressured to follow the prescribed protocol.
- Many doctors recommend complementary treatments without prescribing them.
- Holistic treatments are often combined with conventional medicine. Acupuncture is often combined with medications or surgery.
- Many people believe alternative therapies work better than traditional medicine.
- Alternative drugs are considered more natural and less harmful than traditional drugs.
- Many patients seek out complementary therapies to help them adapt their lifestyles. They want to be healthy but also want to enjoy their lives.
- Patients who follow holistic treatments tend to be healthier.
- Older adults are increasingly turning to holistic treatments.
- More research needs to be conducted on complementary treatments.
- Studies show that most people prefer alternative treatments to going to the doctor.
- It is important for doctors to realize that not all patients will benefit equally from alternate treatments.
- Holistic treatments should be part of our culture and education system.
- Holistic treatments may not be safe for all.
- So that patients can make informed decisions, we must be able to communicate with them about the various therapies.
- Holistic treatment is not for hippies only.
- Certain diseases are not cured by holistic therapies.
- Sometimes, holistic treatments can be dangerous.
- Holistic treatments are helpful for specific conditions.
- Holistic treatments can be very effective.
- Holistic treatments are based off ancient wisdom.
- Holistic treatments are easy to learn.
- Holistic treatments are difficult to learn.
- It can be hard to learn holistic therapies.
- Holistic treatments can be too costly.
- Holistic treatments can be very costly.
- Holistic treatments can be less expensive than conventional medicines.
- Holistic treatments can be more expensive than conventional medicines.
****
Holistic Medicine–A Brief History
Holistic medicine is a system of healing that focuses on treating the whole person instead of just their symptoms. Holistic medicine includes all aspects of a person's life, including their physical, emotional, psychological, spiritual, occupational and cultural influences. It emphasizes prevention rather than cure and aims to prevent disease through diet, exercise, relaxation, stress management, etc.
Bastyr University in Seattle established the first holistic medical school in 1972. After Dr. Andrew Weil's 1996 book, “Spontaneous Healing”, holistic medicine started to flourish. Dr. David Williams, and Dr. Michael Murray founded the American Holistic Medical Association in 1997. There are hundreds of holistic medicine schools all over the world, including Bastyr University in Columbia, Columbia College of Physicians & Surgeons and Maharishi Ayurveda Institute.
In 2013, the World Health Organization declared holistic medicine one of the five major trends in healthcare. This trend integrates conventional care with complementary therapies like homeopathy, acupuncture or herbalism, massage, therapy, reiki, yoga and meditation. This integration will provide safe, effective and patient-centered care with minimal side effects.
Holistic medicine works because of the interconnectedness of our body, mind, and spirit. When any of these three parts are out of balance, illness occurs. Take, for example:
Anxiety and stress can make you anxious, causing you to feel tense or out of balance. Your body reacts by making cortisol. This hormone increases inflammation throughout your body. As a result, you feel tired, weak, and sick.
If your emotions run high, you may experience negative feelings and thoughts like fear, anger, grief, or sadness. These emotions can cause stress in the brain. If left untreated, this stress causes your body to produce adrenaline and cortisol. Adrenaline is a stimulant of your heart beat, blood pressure, as well as breathing rate. Cortisol affects your immune system, digestive tract, and nervous system. Both hormones can lead to fatigue, muscle tension headaches and dizziness, anxiety, depression, and other health issues.
You can lose your faith and hope in life if you feel depressed. It is possible to lack self-esteem or confidence. This can lead to poor eating habits, unhealthy relationship patterns, and low energy. Your spirit will make you feel happy, cheerful, peaceful, optimistic, and positive.
Difference between allopathic and alternative medicine
Allopathic medicine is based on the scientific method. Doctors use xrays to diagnose patients. They prescribe medications for treatment and surgery when needed. Allopathic doctors believe they are able to diagnose and treat illness. Alternative medicine can be used for vitamins, minerals, diet and exercise. Alternative medicine does not have a defined definition. Some people call it natural medicine, integrative medicine, and complementary medicine. Others refer to it as traditional medicine, naturopathic medicine, and CAM.
