3D Systems (renowned for its 3-D printing technologies and healthcare expertise) and CollPlant Biotechnologies (a developer of proprietary recombinant human collagen — rhCollagen — BioInk technology, currently used for 3-D bioprinting of tissues and organs) have signed a joint development agreement intended to play a pivotal role in advancing and accelerating breakthroughs in the biomedical industry.

The companies intend to create integrated 3-D bioprinting solutions comprised of ‘state of the art’ 3-D bioprinters and BioInks to produce tissues and scaffolds.

In accordance with the collaboration agreement, both companies may use a combination of 3D Systems’ printers, CollPlant’s BioInks, and new formulations of rhCollagen-based Bio-Inks jointly developed by the companies, for their own products, as well as for deployments with third parties.

Chuck Hull, co-founder and chief technology officer at 3D Systems (www.3dsystems.com), said: “3D Systems is excited to work with CollPlant to develop ground-breaking bioprinted tissue and scaffold technologies.

"We believe 3-D printing to be a key technology for regenerative medicine, and this collaboration is one of many we are entering to play an integral role in this exciting field.

"Combining our innovative 3-D printing technologies with CollPlant’s rhCollagen-based BioInks has the potential to make a significant impact in bioprinting and regenerative medicine.”

Yehiel Tal, CEO of CollPlant (www.collplant.com), said: “As the leading additive-manufacturing printing solutions company, 3D Systems is the perfect partner for us. Together, we can offer the best combined technology for 3-D bioprinting.

"We are honoured to have established this important collaboration, and we look forward to working together to advance 3-D bioprinting technology to the commercial phase.”