The Business of Biofabrication

Auxilium Biotechnologies successfully deployed its 3D bioprinter aboard the International Space Station (ISS). This achievement marks the an instance of implantable medical devices being printed in space, paving further way for advanced medical solutions both on Earth and in future space missions.

Printing Medical Devices in Microgravity

Auxilium Biotechnologies has successfully 3D bioprinted perfusable vasculature, demonstrating the ability to print functional blood vessels in microgravity. This advancement showcases the potential for space-based regenerative medicine, where the absence of gravity allows for superior structural integrity and enhanced biocompatibility of printed tissues.

Additionally, eight implantable medical devices for nerve repair were fabricated aboard the ISS.

Auxilium’s Bioprinting Technology: AMP-1

The Auxilium Microfabrication Platform (AMP-1) is at the forefront of space-based biomanufacturing. By utilizing lightweight cartridges preloaded with biological materials, AMP-1 efficiently prints implants with minimal astronaut intervention—requiring less than a minute per print session. This streamlined process is a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to transporting large quantities of medical supplies to space.

Why Microgravity Matters for Bioprinting

Microgravity provides distinct advantages for bioprinting, including:

• Uniform material distribution, leading to higher precision and fewer structural defects.
• Enhanced cell viability, allowing for more complex tissue structures.
• Reduced collapse of delicate scaffolds, enabling the creation of fine, intricate details impossible to achieve under Earth’s gravity.

These benefits are crucial for implantable medical devices, particularly those incorporating biological materials and therapeutic agents.

Industry and Market Implications

“The deployment of our bioprinter on the ISS is a landmark achievement for space biomanufacturing and Auxilium,” said Jacob Koffler, PhD MBA, CEO of Auxilium. “AMP-1 is the most advanced 3D-printing platform ever sent to space, and this breakthrough underscores the potential of space-based regenerative medicine.”

With applications spanning peripheral nerve repair, regenerative medicine, and long-duration space missions, AMP-1 is set to transform patient care. The system remains operational on the ISS, with future research focusing on preclinical trials and commercialization.

Collaboration and Future Prospects

Auxilium’s success would not have been possible without strategic partnerships. Isac Lazarovits, Director of Engineering at Auxilium, emphasized, “The installation of the printer on the ISS took just two minutes of astronaut time before it became fully operational—a remarkable feat in itself.”

Collaborators such as Space Tango and Invetech played a crucial role in bringing this project to life. The next phase of research will explore long-term implant viability, with an eye on future applications for Moon and Mars missions.

The Future of Space Bioprinting

The success of AMP-1 builds on NASA’s legacy of medical innovation, which includes advancements like the LVAD (Left Ventricular Assist Device), enhanced imaging technologies for MRIs and CT scans, and life-saving devices such as defibrillators and insulin pumps. Bioprinting in space could soon join this list as a mainstream medical manufacturing process.

With backing from NASA’s InSpace Production Applications (InSpa) program, Auxilium has positioned itself as a market leader in space-based bioprinting. This development underscores the critical role of small businesses in advancing space commercialization and healthcare innovation.

About Auxilium Biotechnologies

Auxilium Biotechnologies is a pioneering biotech company focused on developing regenerative medical solutions for traumatic injuries. The company’s commitment to innovation and collaboration drives its cutting-edge bioprinting advancements.

Original article found here.