LIFT

The LIFT project (Large-scale Innovative Fabrication of in vitro engineered Tissues) aims to develop a scalable, end-to-end bioproduction workflow for engineered tissues by combining advanced biofabrication and bioprocess technologies. These tissues, designed to replicate key physiological functions, offer ethical and predictive alternatives to animal models in therapy and drug development. LIFT addresses three critical challenges: the scale-up of engineered tissues beyond cm³; their architectural and functional complexity; the integration of real-time quality control to meet regulatory standards. The proposed workflow covers the entire value chain: from primary cell and ECM production to 3D scaffold fabrication, tissue assembly and maturation in sterile, perfused bioreactors. The approach is based on the separate generation of functional organoid subunits and bioactive 3D scaffolds, their integration via bioprinting or pick-and-place techniques, and subsequent maturation under controlled conditions. Two proof-of-concept tissue models will be developed: a vascularised liver lobule and a branched pulmonary segment (bronchia, bronchioles, alveoli), chosen for their high pharmaceutical relevance. LIFT builds on a long-standing collaboration between UCBL–3d.FAB and Sartorius Stedim Biotech, formalised through the joint 3D InnovationLab. It will strengthen France’s leadership in the growing tissue engineering market, aligning with the France 2030 strategy and initiatives such as IHU EVEREST. By offering scalable, reproducible and qualifiable engineered tissues, LIFT aims to accelerate innovation in regenerative medicine and drug screening, while contributing to the reduction of animal testing and the standardisation of tissue manufacturing protocols.