University of Toronto

Published purpose

This project will advance a made-in-Canada handheld bioprinting system (INSITE), engineered to treat severe skin injuries in space and in remote environments where conventional surgical care is unavailable. The device enables the operator to print thin, bioactive layers directly onto wounds, accelerating healing while reducing scarring, pain, and donor-site morbidity. The project includes the validation of INSITE’s performance in microgravity aboard Virgin Galactic’s Delta spacecraft flight and will involve developing direct-use cryopreserved bioinks that eliminate the need for on-orbit culture. Deliverables include a flight-tested handheld bioprinter, validated cryopreserved bioinks, and standard operating procedures for suborbital use.