KeratOPrinter aims to develop a 4D bioprinting suite, centred around regenerative medicine and tissue engineering, that can deliver a fully functional, biocompatible, full-thickness native-like human cornea. Our aim is to enable millions of people to receive vision-saving therapy.
The KeratOPrinter Project, funded under the Horizon Europe Framework Programme (grant agreement No. 101191726), serves as a pivotal initiative driving regenerative medicine forward. This project focuses on developing a bioprinting suite capable of producing full-thickness corneal grafts, addressing the global shortage of donor corneas. By leveraging iPSC-derived corneal cells, bioinks, and advanced 3D bioprinting technologies, KeratOPrinter aims to enhance the precision, scalability, and accessibility of biofabricated tissues for ophthalmology.
The project is a multidisciplinary collaboration between leading research institutes, SMEs, and industry partners specialising in stem cell differentiation, biomaterials, regulatory affairs, clinical ophthalmology, and robust, portable containers with active CO₂ and temperature control that ensures the safe transport of living cells and biological samples under optimal laboratory conditions. The integration of GMP-compliant workflows and AI-driven quality control mechanisms ensures the reliability and reproducibility of bioprinted tissues, facilitating their transition into clinical applications.