Strengthening Innovation in Bioconvergence and Bioprinting
BICO, a global leader in bioconvergence and 3D bioprinting, has been granted two significant patents that enhance the regulation and control of temperatures in 3D bioprinters. These innovations aim to improve cell viability, reduce clogging, increase printing consistency, and minimize material waste—paving the way for advances in drug development, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine.
The Patents: U.S. and Swedish Advances in Bioprinting Technology
-
U.S. Patent US 11,046,001: Focuses on temperature regulation of bioinks, helping maintain optimal conditions for living cells during 3D bioprinting. This leads to improved cell viability and more reliable printing results.
-
Swedish Patent SE 543880: Centers on controlling the dispensing nozzle temperature, resulting in better printing consistency, reduced downtime from clogs, and less material waste.
Together, these patents strengthen BICO’s intellectual property portfolio and expand the technological foundation of its subsidiary, CELLINK.
Why Temperature Control Matters in 3D Bioprinting
Maintaining precise temperature control at 37°C is essential for keeping cells alive during the printing process. It’s also crucial when working with sensitive bioinks such as GelMA and Collagen, where nozzle temperature management helps avoid clogging and ensures smooth printing. These innovations mark a critical milestone toward BICO’s mission of advancing biofabrication and biomedicine.
Driving the Future of Medicine
According to Erik Gatenholm, CEO and Co-Founder of BICO, these patents align with the company’s mission:
“Our mission at BICO is to create the future of medicine and improve health globally through the convergence of key biotechnologies.”
By improving the reliability of 3D bioprinting, BICO aims to accelerate drug discovery, tissue engineering, disease modeling, and ultimately reduce the global dependency on organ transplants.
Trusted by Leading Global Institutions
BICO’s bioprinting technology, developed in partnership with CELLINK, is already being used in over 2,000 world-leading labs including Stanford, Harvard, Merck, Novartis, AstraZeneca, Johnson & Johnson, and more. Their innovations span extrusion-based bioprinters, light-based bioprinters, live-cell imaging systems, bioinks, and accessories—cementing their position as a leader in 3D bioprinting.
Looking Ahead
As Dr. Héctor Martínez, Co-Founder and CTO of BICO, explains:
“Our customers around the world are continuously pushing the limits of science using our technology. I’m excited to see how they use these innovations to help make the world a healthier place.”
With these new patents, BICO continues to drive bioprinting innovation and support researchers in transforming healthcare, biotechnology, and regenerative medicine.