Issue Organ Printing

Summary

Organ Printing asks whether transplant waiting lists could be eliminated. Personalised bioprinting combined with genomics would produce 3D-printed tissue identical to the patient's own, shortening or ending waiting lists, reducing rejection and improving survival. In 2024, 173,727 organs were transplanted worldwide, yet donor shortages remain critical, with 17 people dying each day in the US while waiting and a new name added to the list every eight minutes. Low registration, families reversing a loved one's consent, medical exclusions and strict age and health criteria all contribute, and 10 to 15% of recipients still show signs of rejection. Removing dependence on donors and lifelong anti-rejection treatment are the expected benefits, while unknown long-term effects, possible misuse to enhance physical capacities and high costs are the main risks.