Transforming healthcare: Jayeeta Sengupta on the importance of 3D printing
We interviewed Jayeeta Sengupta of TNO about 3D printing in the medical sector.
Published on December 19, 2024
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From prosthetics to medicine: 3D printing in the medical sector is an emerging technology. The technology is, amongst others, vital for child medication, treating conditions like rare diseases and cancer. We interviewed Jayeeta Sengupta, program manager of 3D Pharma Printing at TNO, about this promising technology.
Why is 3D printing so important in the medical world?
“Traditional healthcare often relies on "one size fits all" solutions, where medications are standardized. However, a patient's metabolic profile, body weight, and medical condition can significantly impact their medication response. With 3D printing, medicines can be tailored to a patient's needs, delivering precise dosages and customized release profiles. This is particularly valuable in cases where a precise dose is critical, such as child medication, cancer treatments, or rare diseases. 3D printing can create medications with special release patterns, for example, fast-acting outer layers and slower-release cores. So, in general, it brings precision and customization to healthcare.”
Why do you personally enjoy working in this field?
“I enjoy working in this field because of my background in biology and drug development, which gives me a deep appreciation for the impact that innovative technologies, like 3D printing, can have on patient care. Healthcare has always been a field I’m passionate about, as I find great fulfillment in contributing to solutions that improve lives. The potential to create personalized, effective treatments for patients, especially children, inspires me daily to push the boundaries.”
How is the Netherlands progressing with 3D printing in the medical field?
“The Netherlands is at the forefront of 3D printing in the medical sector, with several key institutions and collaborations driving innovation. In a collaborative effort with Erasmus Medical Center, TNO is working together to bring customized medications and treatments to hospitals using 3D printing technologies. This partnership combines expertise from both institutions to create personalized medications tailored to the unique needs of individual patients. By joining forces, the project aims to provide more effective, patient-specific treatments for child medication and conditions like rare diseases and cancer. The collaboration underscores the potential of joint innovation to transform healthcare delivery. Other prominent institutions like Utrecht University, LUMC, and several commercial entities are involved in 3D printing of medication research as well.”
What are the main challenges in 3D printing for the medical sector?
“The benefits of 3D printing are clear: it allows hospital pharmacies & community pharmacies to create medications more precisely and quickly and ensures that patients receive exactly what they need. However, the biggest challenge is deciding who will pay for it. Unlike AI or other technologies that attract immediate investment from big companies, 3D printing is focused on improving patient care, which requires hospitals or governments to recognize its potential and commit to funding its adoption. In addition to financial support, there are regulatory hurdles that must be overcome to ensure safety and efficacy. Wider adoption of the technology also depends on addressing challenges like production consistency and integrating it into existing healthcare infrastructure. This is where TNO plays a crucial role as a facilitator.”
What other message do you want to convey?
“I want to highlight the importance of collaboration among various key stakeholders for the success of 3D printing in healthcare. This includes ingredient suppliers, healthcare professionals, hospital pharmacies, distributors, and most importantly patients, who must feel comfortable receiving personalized medication. Insurance companies also play a crucial role in supporting the broader adoption of this technology. By aligning the efforts of these stakeholders, we can streamline the integration of 3D printing, making it a widely accessible and effective tool in healthcare."
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