What is PRINT (Particle Replication in Non-wetting Templates) Technology?

PRINT (Particle Replication in Non-wetting Templates) technology is a new technology related to synthesis of artificial blood. University of North Carolina researchers used technology known as PRINT (Particle Replication in Non-wetting Templates) to produce very soft hydrogel particles that mimic the size, shape and flexibility of red blood cells. The technology allows the particles to circulate in the body for extended periods of time, reports the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

However, researchers believe the findings are significant because red blood cells (RBCs) naturally deform in order to pass through microscopic pores in organs and narrow blood vessels, according to a University of North Carolina press release. Over their 120-day lifespan, the red blood cells become stiffer and are filtered out of circulation after being unable to pass through spleen pores.