Endocrine glands serve vital regulatory roles within the human body, orchestrating complex physiological processes and maintaining systemic homeostasis. Disorders affecting endocrine glands are prevalent, impacting up to 8% of the population and constituting the fifth leading cause of death in developed countries. Current therapies, primarily based on hormone replacement, frequently present significant limitations, as externally administered hormones seldom replicate the physiological, stimuli-responsive rhythms characteristic of natural endocrine function. This mismatch contributes to reduced therapeutic efficacy, decreased patient quality of life, and numerous medical complications, underscoring the urgent need for innovative bioengineered solutions.

Three-dimensional (3D) biofabrication technologies, particularly additive manufacturing and bioprinting, alongside advanced biomaterials offer unprecedented capabilities in addressing these challenges. By providing precise control over the architecture, composition, and spatial arrangement of cells, organoids, bioactive molecules, and biomaterial-based matrices, 3D biofabrication enables the creation of sophisticated, patient-specific constructs closely resembling native endocrine tissues. Contemporary biomaterial strategies—including bioactive, biomimetic, and bioresponsive materials—further enhance the functionality and integration of engineered endocrine tissue constructs. This combined approach facilitates the development of biomimetic endocrine gland prostheses capable of mimicking natural hormone secretion patterns, representing a significant stride forward in regenerative endocrinology.

To propel advancements at the intersection of biofabrication and biomaterial sciences, this Research Topic seeks to highlight cutting-edge applications and developments in constructing biomimetic endocrine tissue models and biomedical devices. We invite researchers to submit Original Research, Review, Mini Review, and Perspective articles addressing themes such as:
o 3D bioprinting and biofabrication techniques tailored for endocrine tissue regeneration
o Novel biomaterials design and their characterization for endocrine-specific applications
o Biomimetic organoids and tissue models for endocrine studies
o Functional characterization of biofabricated endocrine constructs in vitro and in vivo
o Advances in cellular engineering strategies for responsive hormone secretion
o Fundamental interactions between biomaterials and endocrine cellular systems
o Microenvironmental influences on engineered endocrine tissue function
o Innovative methods and biofabrication approaches for modeling endocrine diseases

Are you interested in contributing a manuscript to this Research Topic?

Transforming Endocrinology: The Role of 3D Biofabrication and Novel Biomaterials