San Diego, January 14, 2026
Allele Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is partnering with UC San Diego on a pioneering initiative to develop a patient-specific, 3D bioprinted liver. Funded by ARPA-H, the project addresses the critical shortage of liver donors, aiming to revolutionize transplantation procedures. Utilizing advanced bioprinting technology, the collaboration seeks to create customized organs that do not require immunosuppressive drugs, potentially saving thousands of patients annually in the U.S. This partnership highlights the innovative spirit of San Diego’s biotech sector.
San Diego, California – In an exciting development, Allele Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is joining forces with the University of California, San Diego (UC San Diego) in a groundbreaking project financed by the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H). This initiative aims to develop a fully functional, patient-specific, 3D bioprinted liver for transplantation, addressing the persistent challenge of liver donor shortages that many patients face today.
The partnership is part of ARPA-H’s Personalized Regenerative Immunocompetent Nanotechnology Tissue (PRINT) program. This innovative program is dedicated to utilizing state-of-the-art bioprinting techniques combined with regenerative medicine to fabricate custom, on-demand organs that do not necessitate immunosuppressive drugs. With entrepreneurial spirit and scientific ingenuity at the forefront, this project represents a bright future in medical technology and the potential for improved outcomes for patients in dire need.
### Key Aspirations of the Partnership
The collaboration aims to tackle the critical shortage of donor livers, a challenge that affects tens of thousands of patients on the waiting list each year. By producing customized organs, the project could revolutionize transplant procedures. Allele will play a pivotal role in generating messenger RNA (mRNA) reprogrammed cGMP-induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) lines and conducting research to differentiate them into various liver cell types. These advancements could significantly enhance the clinical application of liver transplants by allowing for cost-effective and high-yield production of vital liver cells.
### Impact of the PRINT Program
Led by Dr. Ryan Spitler, the PRINT program’s overarching goal is to create personalized organ solutions that minimize reliance on donor organs and mitigate the lifelong need for immunosuppressive drugs. By potentially alleviating the need for donor organs, this program could save over 12,000 patients in the U.S. each year who are currently awaiting liver transplants. This not only symbolizes a leap forward in medical technology but also showcases how American innovation and entrepreneurship can tackle healthcare challenges that have persisted for decades.
### Previous Innovations
The partnership builds upon previous successes in 3D bioprinted liver tissues conducted by UC San Diego. A notable achievement from 2016 was the successful 3D printing of a liver tissue that closely mimics the structural and functional characteristics of a human liver. This significant advancement could benefit drug screening and disease modeling, underscoring the growing capabilities in bioprinting technology. This historical context emphasizes the potential of the current initiative and highlights the dedication of local researchers in providing innovative solutions in medicine.
### Emphasis on Local Impact
This partnership not only represents advancements in medical technology but also showcases the resilient spirit of the San Diego entrepreneurial ecosystem. The collaboration reflects how local companies, in conjunction with renowned institutions, can bring forth cutting-edge innovations that have the potential to transform industries. Encouraging a regulatory environment conducive to such partnership-driven initiatives will undoubtedly bolster San Diego’s reputation as a hub for biotechnological advancements and economic growth.
### Call for Support in Local Business Innovation
As this partnership unfolds, it is imperative for the community and stakeholders to remain engaged and supportive of the pioneering efforts within San Diego’s healthcare and biotech landscape. Investing in innovative solutions, respecting the entrepreneurial journey, and acknowledging the potential for job creation and economic prosperity will pave the way for a brighter future, not just for the city’s economy but also for the countless patients positively impacted by such advancements.
### Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the goal of the partnership between Allele Biotechnology and UC San Diego?
The partnership aims to develop a fully functional, patient-specific, 3D bioprinted liver for transplantation, addressing the critical shortage of donor livers.
What is the PRINT program?
The PRINT program, led by ARPA-H Program Manager Dr. Ryan Spitler, seeks to utilize advanced bioprinting technology and regenerative medicine to create personalized, on-demand organs that do not require immunosuppressive drugs.
What role will Allele Biotechnology play in this project?
Allele will generate mRNA reprogrammed cGMP-induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) lines and conduct research to differentiate these iPSCs into various liver cell types, including hepatocytes, cholangiocytes, endothelial progenitors, and hepatic stellate cells.
How could this project impact the liver transplant waiting list?
If successful, the project could eliminate the need for donor organs and lifelong immunosuppressive drugs, potentially saving over 12,000 U.S. patients each year on the waiting list.
What previous advancements have been made in 3D bioprinted liver tissue?
In 2016, a team at UC San Diego successfully 3D-printed a tissue that closely mimics the human liver’s structure and function, which could be used for patient-specific drug screening and disease modeling.
### Key Features of the Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Partnership | Allele Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and UC San Diego |
| Funding | Up to $25.8 million from ARPA-H |
| Program | Personalized Regenerative Immunocompetent Nanotechnology Tissue (PRINT) |
| Objective | Develop patient-specific, 3D bioprinted livers for transplantation |
| Potential Impact | Address liver transplant shortage, eliminate need for donor organs and immunosuppressive drugs |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
