McGill Bioengineer Advances Lung Regeneration with 3D Printing

A bioengineer at the McGill University Health Centre has made significant strides in lung regenerative medicine through innovative 3D printing technology. Dr. Darcy Wagner and her research team have successfully created lung tissue using extrusion-based bioprinting, a process that could revolutionize treatment for patients with damaged lungs.

During a recent demonstration at the MUHC Research Institute located at the Glen site, Wagner explained the bioprinting process. The team uses cells suspended in a polymer, a biocompatible plastic, which solidifies through a chemical reaction. “We have the cells in this sort of liquid state of a polymer, and then it gels afterwards,” said Wagner. She emphasized that their method mimics traditional 3D printing, adapting it to maintain cell viability.

The motivation for this groundbreaking research stems from a critical global shortage of lungs available for transplant. Currently, only 7,000 lung transplants occur worldwide each year, leaving millions of patients awaiting suitable organs. Wagner noted, “If you’re lucky enough to get one of these really rare lungs that are eligible for transplantation, you have the worst outcome of any solid organ transplants right now.”

While three-dimensional bioprinting is not a new concept, this project represents the first application of materials specifically designed for lung tissue. Wagner’s team believes their approach could potentially eliminate the need for lung transplants by reconstructing damaged areas. This is particularly promising for patients with lung or airway cancers, where a tumor may affect only a specific region. “If we can just reconstruct that part, this would be a game-changer for a lot of patients,” she added.

Early results from their research in animal models have shown no signs of rejection. Wagner highlighted that the materials they designed promote the growth of new blood vessels from the patient’s own body, enhancing the integration of the bioprinted tissue.

Dr. Alan Forster, the director for innovation, quality, and performance at MUHC, underscored the significance of this advancement for personalized medicine. He stated, “The concept of personalized medicine is where I think we’re going. It entails specific therapies for specific people, based on their biology, based on their background, based on their specific disease.” Forster believes that innovations like these, which he refers to as “designer treatments,” could transform healthcare on a broad scale.

Despite the promising developments, challenges remain. Forster pointed out the need for sustainable funding to support these innovations. “What do we do to make this sustainable for the whole population? I feel that there is probably some need to reform insurance practices,” he said. He advocates for increased partnerships to facilitate breakthroughs in medical research and treatment.

Wagner’s research has garnered significant financial support, including over $375,000 from the MUHC Foundation. Nonetheless, her work with 3D bioprinting is far from complete. The team must produce larger tissue samples before they can consider human trials, marking the next phase in their pioneering journey toward lung regeneration.