3D printout with tissue

TEL Aviv University has presented a prototype of a miniature heart, which scientists say is the world’s first heart created with a 3D printer using human tissue.

“This is the first time anyone, anywhere, has successfully engineered and printed an entire heart replete with cells, blood vessels, ventricles and chambers,” said Professor Tal Dvir, who led the research, which he presented at a press conference on Monday.

Until now, the university said, scientists have been successful in printing only simple tissue without blood vessels.