Fig. 2.

3D bioprinting strategy. The different steps for bioprinting 3D tissues are represented as a schematic illustration. The process starts with diagnostic images obtained using computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans from damaged tissues, which are used to obtain a computer-aid design. Common biomaterials, cell sources and bioactive molecules used in the bioinks are shown. These components have to be integrated using bioprinting techniques including inkjet, laser or extrusion-based methods. An appropriate biomaterial is crucial to obtain a final 3D bioconstruct resembling the microenvironment and growth cues of native tissues. A period of in vitro maturation in a bioreactor may be required before transplantation or use for in vitro applications.