Researchers Create 3-D Printable Tools for Drug Production
A team at the University of Glasgow reported in Science Thursday that they have made a series of 3-D printable reaction vessels, or “reactionware,” that can be used to turn simple compounds into medicines.
Why use 3-D printing? “This approach will allow the on-demand production of chemicals and drugs that are in short supply, hard to make at big facilities, and allow customization to tailor them to the application,” says Leroy Cronin, one of the paper's authors.
The benefit: Printable tools could encourage drug makers to create medicines for rare diseases that would be too costly to manufacture using conventional methods.
The risk: The reactionware might also be used for ill deeds, like synthesizing illegal drugs. But as with 3-D printed guns, it's likely still more trouble than it's worth.
Deep Dive
Uncategorized
Our best illustrations of 2022
Our artists’ thought-provoking, playful creations bring our stories to life, often saying more with an image than words ever could.
How CRISPR is making farmed animals bigger, stronger, and healthier
These gene-edited fish, pigs, and other animals could soon be on the menu.
The Download: the Saudi sci-fi megacity, and sleeping babies’ brains
10 Breakthrough Technologies 2023
Stay connected
Get the latest updates from
MIT Technology Review
Discover special offers, top stories, upcoming events, and more.