Jan 16, 2025 Biotechnology is advancing at an unprecedented rate, and one of the most groundbreaking developments in this field is bioprinting. In our latest podcast episode, we spoke with Mr. Mike Graffeo, CEO and co-founder of Fluoform3D, a startup at the forefront of bioprinting technology emerging from Carnegie Mellon University. With a focus on creating sophisticated tissue structures using what’s known as FRESH Technology, Fluoform3D is not just reshaping scientific inquiry—it’s redefining possibilities in medical therapeutics. The podcast begins with Mike detailing the remarkable journey of Fluoform3D, founded in 2018 when he and his co-founders sought to bring innovative bioprinting solutions from the lab into real-world applications. Their core mission is to address the urgent need for replacement tissues and organs, a problem that has long plagued the medical field.
What sets Fluoform3D apart is its commitment to creating an environment for biomaterials that closely mimic natural processes. Mike explains that traditional bioprinting often falls short because it introduces artificial chemistries that don’t exist in the human body. Fluoform3D, however, focuses on leveraging a freeform reversible embedding of suspended hydrogels, which facilitates more natural cell behaviors. This innovative approach enables the adhesion and retention of biomaterials during the critical self-assembly process inherent in biological systems.
A key highlight of our conversation centered around current research and applications in the cardiac space. Mike revealed exciting developments related to the in vitro cardiac tissues that Fluoform3D works on. This technology can generate heart tissues capable of rhythmic contractions and is also being utilized in drug discovery processes, which could significantly improve how heart disease is treated.
Lately, however, the company has been shifting focus toward creating bioprinted tissue replacements for Type I Diabetes. The company has completed small-animal testing of its proprietary implants and is now raising funding for large-animal testing during the JP Morgan annual conference.
During the episode, we also discussed the company’s ongoing efforts to secure funding to support its ambitious research and development initiatives. Mike emphasized the importance of cultivating relationships with investors who provide capital and align with the long-term vision of Fluoform3D.
Listening to Mike’s perspectives on the regulatory landscape was particularly enlightening. He recognizes the challenges of navigating the FDA’s complex approval processes but expresses optimism about the potential for innovation within this framework. He believes constructive dialogue with regulatory bodies can expedite bringing life-saving technologies to market without compromising patient safety. Equally important is the culture within Fluoform3D. Mike strongly believes in fostering a collaborative environment where team members feel motivated and empowered to contribute ideas. He emphasizes the importance of having a shared understanding of the company’s mission and the positive impact it aims to achieve in healthcare.
In conclusion, this episode not only underscores the potential of bioprinting as a life-saving technology but also provides valuable lessons for entrepreneurs and innovators looking to make a difference in biotech. Fluoform3D is breaking the mold by marrying cutting-edge science with practical applications, and Mike Graffeo’s insights illuminate the path for this exciting field.
Related Links:
- Interview with Mike Graffeo -Being a 3D Bioprinting Entrepreneur (IG Live Recordings)
https://3dheals.com/interview-with-mike-graffeo-being-a-3d-bioprinting-entrepreneur-ig-live-recordings/ - Expert Corner blogs on bioprinting by Andrew Hudson (four-part series) https://3dheals.com/the-yellow-brick-road-of-3d-bioprinting/
- Interview with Andrew Hudson, Co-Founder of Fluidform
https://3dheals.com/interview-with-andrew-hudson-co-founder-of-fluidform/ - FluidForm Bio Official Website
https://www.fluidformbio.com/ - Emergence of FRESH 3D Printing as a Platform for Advanced Tissue Biofabrication
https://pubs.aip.org/aip/apb/article/5/1/010904/1061265 - FRESH™ 3D Bioprinted Cardiac Tissue: A Bioengineered Platform for In Vitro Pharmacology
https://pubs.aip.org/aip/apb/article/7/4/046113/2925576 - FRESH Extrusion 3D Printing of Type-1 Collagen Hydrogels
https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0317350 - FRESH Bioprinting Technology for Tissue Engineering – The Influence of Printing Process and Bioink Composition on Cell Behavior and Vascularization
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/22808000211028808 - FRESH Method: 3D Bioprinting as a New Approach for Tissue and Organ Engineering
https://www.actatecnologia.eu/issues/2021/III_2021_02_Findrik-Balogova_Trebunova_Rajtukova_Hudak.pdf - FluidForm Bio Demonstrates Advancements in Engineered Heart Tissues with FRESH™ 3D Bioprinting
https://bioinformant.com/fluidform-bio-engineered-heart-tissues-fresh-3d-bioprinting/
Comments