Researchers at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine are using 3D bioprinting technology to study pregnancy and preterm labor, according to a March 23 announcement. The team has developed a bioprinted model that simulates the uterus at the end of pregnancy, allowing scientists to investigate how labor begins and explore potential treatments for preterm birth.
The use of bioprinting in reproductive research is significant because there are limited models available for studying human labor. This new approach could lead to improved understanding and more effective therapies for preventing early births.
The project began nearly ten years ago after a graduate student was inspired by advances in bioprinted lung tissue. Heather Burkin, Ph.D., associate professor of pharmacology, recognized the potential for this technology in reproductive science. UNR Med became one of the first academic institutions to adopt tissue therapeutics from Aspect Biosystems for this purpose. In October 2025, their work on a bioprinted model of pregnant human uterine myometrium was published.
Collaboration across disciplines played an important role in developing the model. Yifei Jin, Ph.D., professor of mechanical engineering, studied how bioinks flow and solidify during printing. “With an engineering background, I’m used to asking how to build something,” Jin said. “Working with medical researchers shifts the focus to whether it is safe, physiologically relevant, and clinically meaningful.” Undergraduate students also contributed significantly; Jada Okaikoi said her experience strengthened both her technical skills and confidence: “I learned to culture cells, prepare bioinks, operate the bioprinter, and test how the tissue responds to drugs.” Okaikoi added that working in Dr. Burkin’s lab revealed gaps in women’s health research: “It gave me the confidence to pursue my Ph.D.” Another former undergraduate researcher Anutr Sivakoses emphasized mentorship received: “Drs. Burkin and Ulrich were incredibly supportive regardless of the outcome… Their guidance inspired me to emulate that mentorship in my own career.”
Faculty members from pharmacology, engineering and biochemistry worked together so that technical innovations addressed real-world medical questions about labor and preterm birth.
Looking forward, researchers hope their approach will allow creation of multiple models tailored for specific risk factors behind preterm birth—potentially leading toward personalized treatments for patients.
