Biopharma Insights A description of the methods used to convert an HP DeskJet 500 printer into a bioprinter. The printer is capable of processing living cells, which causes transient pores in the membrane. These pores can be utilized to incorporate small molecules, including fluorescent G-actin, into the printed cells.
Total time
~4–6 hours (including printer conversion, cartridge prep, bioink preparation, and printing runs)
Model organism
Mammalian cells (species not specified in abstract)
Steps
1
Convert HP DeskJet 500 printer to bioprinter
Modify the standard HP DeskJet 500 printer hardware to enable bioprinting capability. This involves converting the mechanical and electronic components to accommodate cell-containing fluids.
▶ 01:22
2
Prepare and modify HP 26 ink cartridges
Convert stock HP 26 black ink cartridges for use as bioink reservoirs. Replace standard ink with cell suspension while maintaining cartridge functionality.
▶ 02:31
3
Clean cartridge and prepare cell suspension bioink
Clean the modified ink cartridge to remove residual ink and prepare a bioink formulation containing living cells. Ensure cell viability and proper suspension consistency.
▶ 03:09
4
Perform bioprinting of cells onto substrate
Load the cell-containing cartridge into the converted printer and execute printing to deposit cells onto a target surface, inducing transient membrane pores during ejection.
▶ 03:59
5
Image and validate bioprinted cell delivery
Capture fluorescent microscopy images of printed cells to confirm successful incorporation of small molecules (e.g., fluorescent G-actin) through membrane pores and assess printing quality.
▶ 04:45