Imaging-guided deep tissue in vivo sound printing

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Editor’s summary

Three-dimensional (3D) printing is a valuable tool for generating patient-specific implants, either externally or even directly inside the body. The limitation of the former approach is the need for surgical implantation, whereas the latter approach is limited by the need for precursor materials and a polymerization method safe for in vivo use that can be activated with precision from outside of the body. Davoodi et al. developed a platform that uses imaging-guided ultrasound printing, which is capable of penetration depths much greater than the other approaches (see the Perspective by Kuang). The authors loaded cross-linking agents loaded into low-temperature–sensitive liposomes for incorporation into tunable bioinks. In vivo demonstrations included printing near diseased areas in a mouse bladder and deep within rabbit leg muscles. —Marc S. Lavine

Abstract

Three-dimensional printing offers promise for patient-specific implants and therapies but is often limited by the need for invasive surgical procedures. To address this, we developed an imaging-guided deep tissue in vivo sound printing (DISP) platform. By incorporating cross-linking agent–loaded low-temperature–sensitive liposomes into bioinks, DISP enables precise, rapid, on-demand cross-linking of diverse functional biomaterials using focused ultrasound. Gas vesicle–based ultrasound imaging provides real-time monitoring and allows for customized pattern creation in live animals. We validated DISP by successfully printing near diseased areas in the mouse bladder and deep within rabbit leg muscles in vivo, demonstrating its potential for localized drug delivery and tissue replacement. DISP’s ability to print conductive, drug-loaded, cell-laden, and bioadhesive biomaterials demonstrates its versatility for diverse biomedical applications.

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Correction 9 May 2025:

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