Title:
Bioprinting to Biopreservation: Suborbital Validation of INSITE and Cryo Cell Therapy Development
Agreement Number:
25FATOA88
Agreement Value:
$436,500.00
Agreement Date:
Mar 30, 2026 - Mar 31, 2028
Description:
This project will advance a made-in-Canada handheld bioprinting system (INSITE), engineered to treat severe skin injuries in space and in remote environments where conventional surgical care is unavailable. The device enables the operator to print thin, bioactive layers directly onto wounds, accelerating healing while reducing scarring, pain, and donor-site morbidity. The project includes the validation of INSITE’s performance in microgravity aboard Virgin Galactic’s Delta spacecraft flight and will involve developing direct-use cryopreserved bioinks that eliminate the need for on-orbit culture. Deliverables include a flight-tested handheld bioprinter, validated cryopreserved bioinks, and standard operating procedures for suborbital use.
Organization:
Canadian Space Agency
Expected Results:
The Research component of the program provides financial support to organizations to conduct space related research
and development in priority areas. It will support targeted knowledge development and innovation to sustain and enhance the Canadian capacity to use space to address national needs and priorities in the future.
Location:
Toronto, Ontario, CA M5S 1S8
Reference Number:
003-2025-2026-Q4-00067
Report Type:
Grants and Contributions
Additional Information:
The amount allocated covers more than one fiscal year.
Recipient's Legal Name:
University of Toronto
Program:
Class Grant and Contribution Program to Support Research, Awareness and Learning in Space Science and Technology
Program Purpose:
This program supports knowledge development and innovation in the CSA's priority areas while increasing the awareness and participation of Canadians in space-related disciplines and activities.
The Research Component aims to support the development of science and technology; foster the continual development of a critical mass of researchers and highly qualified people in Canada; and support information gathering and space-related studies and research pertaining to Canadian Space Agency priorities.