First 3D printed penis

3D printed penises implanted in rabbits and pigs allowed them to mate and reproduce within weeks. In the future, it could be applied to humans.

3D printed penis helps rabbits regain their ability to mate and reproduce - Photo: pbs.org

An international team of researchers from China, Japan and the US has made a major step forward in 3D printing of organs within the body, a fascinating but extremely challenging aspect of biomedical engineering.

These are the world's first 3D printed penis models that could help animals with penis problems regain functions such as mating and reproduction.

One of the fundamental challenges in printing an organ from its underlying tissues is the vascular network. In the case of the penis, the vascular network has the specific function of creating an erection, with blood trapped in the corpora cavernosa causing the penis to become erect.

The research team used hydrogel to 3D print penis models, including the main structures of the corpora cavernosa and spongy bodies with urethral structures as well as the white membrane covering them, according to IFLScience on March 4.

This approach allows them to study defects and characteristics in normal penile function in vitro without the need for animals or humans. Damage to the tunica albuginea and corpora cavernosa can lead to pathological conditions.

In particular, the team wants to create in vitro models of erectile dysfunction and Peyronie's disease, a condition in which scar tissue causes the penis to become curved and painful.

The hydrogel model was used to demonstrate how blood flows into the corpora cavernosa, causing the organ to become engorged, and how the cavernous sinuses act as a valve to block blood flow, helping to achieve and maintain an erection.

The team also created 3D-printed models of penises to transplant into rabbits and pigs with penile problems. Within weeks, normal erectile function was restored, allowing them to mate and reproduce.

This work opens up the possibility of potential clinical applications of bio-corporeal corpora cavernosa in the treatment of penile trauma. At the same time, the research also advances the clinical application of 3D-printed artificial tissue organs.

The research was published in the journal Nature Biomedical Engineering .

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/lan-dau-tien-in-3d-duong-vat-20250305102954574.htm