#Japan #Tokyo #NSK #Saifuse #Bio 3D Printer

Joint Development of a New Bio 3D Printer

In a remarkable collaboration, NSK, a leading manufacturer of bearings and precision machinery based in Shinagawa, Tokyo, and Saifuse, a pioneering venture in regenerative medicine technology located in Minato, Tokyo, have partnered to develop an advanced Bio 3D printer. This device is designed specifically for the production of 3D cell products in the regenerative medicine and next-generation healthcare sectors. As the regenerative medicine market is projected to reach around $8.3 billion by 2030, there is an urgent need for devices capable of producing high-quality cell products reliably and in large quantities.

Background of the Collaboration

Recognizing the growing demand, NSK and Saifuse initiated collaborative research in 2022, focusing on the mechanization and automation of the manufacturing process for 3D cell products. Their joint efforts have led to significant technological advancements, culminating in a successful new technology development that will enable practical and commercial applications of new cell products by 2024. The newly developed Bio 3D printer incorporates Saifuse's unique bio 3D printing technology with NSK's core precision positioning technology, honed over decades in the industrial machinery field.

Key Features of the New Bio 3D Printer

This new device inherits the design ethos of Saifuse's existing Bio 3D printer, the S-PIKE®, while achieving key advancements crucial for commercial production, such as scalability and compact manufacturing automation.

1. Large Tissue Production: The integration of NSK’s precision technology allows for improved control, enabling the production of larger and more complex 3D tissues, while maintaining the design flexibility that the S-PIKE® is known for.

2. Compact Manufacturing Automation: The process of cell aggregate dispensing and stacking has been automated and consolidated into a single sequence within a safety cabinet. This integration was significantly aided by NSK’s proprietary low-dust and decontamination actuator, which eliminates the risk of particulate contamination and infection without requiring additional space-consuming structures. Consequently, this setup ensures stable production in a compact space, potentially reducing manufacturing costs and addressing labor shortages in the future.

Future Outlook

Looking ahead, NSK and Saifuse aim to lead the evaluation and commercialization of 3D cell products developed using this device. Saifuse will advance product development within the rapidly expanding regenerative medicine sector, focusing on innovative regenerative medical products and groundbreaking 3D cell solutions in the healthcare industry. The new Bio 3D printer will be showcased at the upcoming 25th Annual Meeting of the Japanese Society for Regenerative Medicine, scheduled for March 19-20, 2026, in Kobe. This event will provide an excellent opportunity to gather customer feedback, further accelerating efforts towards practical applications and market launch.

About Saifuse

Saifuse is a regenerative medicine venture leveraging unique bio 3D printing technology to materialize previously unimaginable treatment options. Their development of regenerative medical products is already at the clinical trial stage, where patient transplantation is being explored, while working towards establishing a robust supply chain for future commercial production.

About NSK

Since producing Japan's first bearings in 1916, NSK has been at the forefront of innovative solutions in bearings, automotive components, and precision machinery for over a century. With a presence in around 30 countries and recognized as the third-largest player in the global bearing industry, NSK’s commitment to global growth is exemplified by its vision for 2026, focusing on creating sustainable movements and connections across borders.

Through collaborative innovation, NSK and Saifuse are poised to significantly impact the regenerative medicine landscape, ensuring the mass production of quality 3D cell products becomes a reality.