3D Bioprinting of Cellular Therapeutic Systems in Ophthalmology: from Bioengineered Tissue to Personalized Drug Delivery

Authors: 
Hyeonji Kim, Gia-Han Ngo, Wen Hong, Soo Hyeon Lee, Vinit B Mahajan, Charles DeBoer
Publication date: 
2025-09

Purpose of review: In this article, we provide a brief overview of 3D bioprinting technologies and the types of cells employed in ophthalmic cell therapy. We then explore recent applications of 3D bioprinting in ophthalmic cell delivery systems.

Recent findings: Cell therapy in ophthalmology is a promising treatment for various eye diseases, there exists some limitations of existing cell therapy strategies Such as cell loss, poor integration with Surrounding tissues, and the sustainability of long-term effects. In this regard, 3D bioprinting technology provides a beneficial method for developing highly biomimetic and reliable cell delivery systems for ophthalmic disease research. Recent advances have shown bioengineered tissues which replicate the microstructure of native tissues, personalized ophthalmic devices, and encapsulated cell-delivery systems. While still in the early stages of advancement, the development of cell delivery systems based on bioprinting technologies is indeed inspiring and has the potential to be applied to other ocular diseases.

Summary: Cell therapy based on 3D bioprinting technology in ophthalmology has great potential in ophthalmic disease treatment as well as ocular tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

Keywords: 3D bioprinting technology; Cell therapy; Drug delivery; Regenerative medicine; Tissue engineering.

Citation: 

Kim H, Ngo GH, Hong W, Lee SH, Mahajan VB, DeBoer C. 3D Bioprinting of Cellular Therapeutic Systems in Ophthalmology: from Bioengineered Tissue to Personalized Drug Delivery. Curr Ophthalmol Rep. 2025;13(1):10. doi: 10.1007/s40135-025-00337-6. Epub 2025 Sep 26. PMID: 41019312; PMCID: PMC12474738.

PMCID: 
12474738
PubMed ID: 
41019312
Year of Publication: 
2025
Curr Ophthalmol Rep