Recent advancements in biomedical tissue engineering are gaining wide interest. Implementing biology of living cells and organisms using technological solutions such as incorporating 4D printing and bioprinting for tissue regeneration/tissue repair, organ regeneration, early diagnosis of deadly diseases (particularly cancer, cardiac disorders and tuberculosis) has successfully opened a new generation of biomedical research. The present review primarily addresses the clinical application of 4D printing and bioprinting techniques for applications such as early detection of diseases and drug delivery. Notably, this review continues the discussion from part I regarding published informative data, in vitro and in vivo findings, commercial biosensors for early disease diagnosis, drug delivery and current challenges in 4D printing/bioprinting.
The transition from 3D to 4D printing has revolutionized various domains of healthcare, pharmaceuticals, design and architecture, and coating processes. The evolution from 3D printing to 4D printing (4DP) has added a fourth dimension as a time-dependent response. This review discusses the significance, demands, various types of smart materials/biomaterials, as well as bioinks and printers used in 4DP technology. This review also provides insights into the limitations of the bioprinting process and bioinks used in various bioprinting technologies and the challenges that come with these limitations. A brief discussion on the future potential of the fundamentals and capabilities of 4D printing is also discussed.
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