Researchers produced elastic ear cartilage in a laboratory using human ear cartilage cells. The project is a collaboration between university and hospital teams, and it builds on earlier 3D printing work.
The scientists grew many cells in a nutrient solution, then mixed them into a bioink and printed ear shapes. They used a special culture environment and an incubator so collagen and elastin could form in the material.
In animal tests the printed ears kept their shape and elasticity after six weeks. The team now plans clinical studies and formal approval before use in people.
Difficult words
- cartilage — firm but flexible tissue in the body
- bioink — material with cells used for 3D printing
- incubator — warm, controlled box for growing cells
- collagen — protein that helps tissue stay strong
- elastin — protein that gives tissue stretch and return
- clinical — relating to tests or treatments with patients
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you think clinical studies are important before use in people? Why?
- Would you feel comfortable with a 3D-printed ear made from human cells? Why or why not?
- What is one advantage of printing ear shapes in a lab?
Related articles
Instagram bot campaigns target activists and media in Western Balkans
In November 2025 coordinated bot operations hit activist and media Instagram accounts in the Western Balkans. Reports on November 16 and 23, 2025 describe fake followers, mass reports, bot comments and mass liking that reduced visibility.
Wearable 10‑Minute Antibody Sensors from University of Pittsburgh
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh made a wearable biosensor that detects antibodies in interstitial fluid in 10 minutes without a blood draw. The tiny carbon nanotube sensors are highly sensitive and the work appears in Analytical Chemistry.
Antibody and EGFR–STAT1 pathway point to new fibrosis treatments
Researchers at Yale found a human antibody that blocks epiregulin and lowers fibrosis markers. They also show EGFR activates STAT1 in fibroblasts, suggesting two treatment paths: block epiregulin or target the EGFR–STAT1 pathway.
Affordable twice-yearly HIV injection lenacapavir to reach 120 countries
Lenacapavir, a twice-yearly HIV prevention injection, will be licensed for 120 low- and middle-income countries at US$40 a year. Rollout is expected from 2027 with funding support, but some countries and price transparency remain concerns.