Ourobionics BV unveils CHIMERA 5-in-1 3D bioprinter

Ourobionics BV, a pioneering bioprinter manufacturer based in the Netherlands, unveiled CHIMERA, an innovative biofabrication platform that combines five advanced technologies into a single modular platform, addressing significant challenges in tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, synthetic biology, and cellular agriculture. With remarkable adaptability and scalability, CHIMERA sets a new standard for researchers and professionals working on the forefront of scientific discovery.

Merging five advanced technologies into one system

CHIMERA’s ingenuity lies in its integration of several groundbreaking biofabrication methodologies, including 3D Bio-ElectroSpraying, 3D Cell-ElectroSpinning, 3D Bio-ElectroJetting, 3D Melt/Cell ElectroWriting, and Standard 3D Extrusion BioPrinting. By combining these technologies, the platform enables the creation of complex, multi-dimensional tissue structures with unparalleled precision and efficiency, making it a transformative tool in biofabrication.

CHIMERA addresses longstanding limitations in traditional biofabrication techniques by offering remarkable speed, resolution, and versatility enhancements. Capable of achieving production speeds up to 30 times faster than conventional extrusion bioprinting, it can produce one cubic centimeter of tissue in just one minute through bio-electric field technology. Its nanoscale resolution, reaching up to 50 nanometers, allows for creating intricately detailed scaffolds and tissue structures. With a focus on maintaining cellular integrity, CHIMERA achieves an impressive 98% cell viability across more than 56 cell types, including embryonic and stem cells. The platform also supports encapsulating cells, cell clusters, genes, and genetic assemblies, opening doors to new possibilities in cellular agriculture and synthetic biology.

Expanding the compatibility of biomaterials

CHIMERA is designed to accommodate nearly any type of biomaterial, regardless of its viscosity. This ensures that cells remain viable and functional throughout fabrication, effectively addressing the stress and degradation often associated with traditional extrusion techniques. Its ability to preserve cellular and metabolic integrity sets it apart from existing biofabrication systems.

In addition to its core technologies, CHIMERA offers early-stage adopters access to upcoming 3D Microfluidic Bio-Electro/Magnetic modules. These modules will expand the platform’s applications into drug development, organoid research, and advanced tissue engineering, further solidifying its position as a transformative tool in bio-manufacturing.

A bioeconomy achievement

CHIMERA’s launch is a significant milestone, backed by a successful 2024 venture capital funding round led by OostNL and the €1 billion NXTGEN Hightech program. This achievement positions CHIMERA as a cornerstone in the emerging bioeconomy, driving advancements in tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, cell-based manufacturing, and advanced biomaterial development.

John Zandbergen, founder and CEO of Ourobionics BV, emphasized CHIMERA’s mission to address critical challenges in biofabrication while delivering unmatched modularity and adaptability. Dr. Ali Shooshtari, Chief Technology Officer, described the platform as a groundbreaking tool for professionals in regenerative medicine and synthetic biology, highlighting its potential to redefine the field.

CHIMERA’s origins trace back to foundational research led by Prof. Suwan Jayasinghe at University College London (UCL), with significant advancements from Dr. Stephen G. Gray and Dr. Ali Shooshtari. Supported by over 150 scientific publications, CHIMERA’s bio-electrofabrication capabilities are designed to transform applications in stem cell therapies, drug testing, and organoid development.