Student Article

Curious about how scientists can create miniature human hearts using 3D printers?

A big breakthrough in a tiny package

In a groundbreaking study, researchers at the University of Minnesota have successfully 3D printed a functioning human heart pump. This heart model, measuring approximately 0.6 inches (1.5 centimeters) in length, was designed to fit into the abdominal cavity of a mouse for further study. The researchers used pluripotent human stem cells, which have the potential to develop into any type of cells in the body.

Making the cells work together

Previous attempts to 3D print heart muscle cells, known as cardiomyocytes, using stem cells faced challenges due to insufficient cell density. To overcome this issue, the researchers reversed the process by first expanding the stem cells to high densities within the structure and then differentiating them into heart muscle cells. This approach allowed them to achieve a high enough cell density for the cells to beat synchronously, mimicking the function of a human heart.

Tiny hearts, big impacts

The heart muscle model is like a closed sac with a fluid inlet and outlet, enabling researchers to measure how the heart moves blood within the body. This miniature heart can serve as a valuable tool for studying heart disease, testing the effects of medicines, and exploring new therapeutic approaches. By introducing disease and damage into the model, scientists can observe the cellular and molecular changes and develop targeted treatments.

This discovery has the potential to revolutionize heart research and lead to significant advancements in the fight against heart disease. The ability to create a functional heart model using 3D printing and stem cells opens new avenues for understanding and treating cardiovascular conditions.

© Jason Goodyer / Our Media