Advancements and Applications of 4D Bioprinting in Biomedical Science

The constraints of traditional 3D bioprinting are overcome by 4D bioprinting integrating with adaptable materials over time, resulting in dynamic, compliant, and functional biological structures. This innovative approach to bioprinting holds great promise for tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and advanced drug delivery systems. 4D bioprinting is a technology that allows for the extension of 3D bioprinting technology by making predesigned structures change after they are fabricated using smart materials that can alter their characteristics via stimulus, leading to transformation in healthcare, which is able to provide precise personalized effective medical treatment without any side effects. This review article concentrates on some recent developments and applications in the field of 4D bioprinting, which can pave the way for groundbreaking advancements in biomedical sciences. 4D printing is a new chapter in bioprinting that introduces dynamism and functional living biological structures. Therefore, smart materials and sophisticated printing techniques can eliminate the challenges associated with printing complex organs and tissues. However, the problems with this process are biocompatibility, immunogenicity, and scalability, which need to be addressed. Moreover, numerous obstacles have been encountered during its widespread adoption in clinical practice. Therefore, 4D bioprinting requires improvements in future material science innovations and further development in printers and manufacturing techniques to unlock its potential for better patient care and outcomes.