Scientists 3D print first biomimetic tongue

UK scientists led by Leeds University in collaboration with Edinburgh University have shown that their 3D-printed synthetic silicone structure mimics the topology, elasticity, and wettability of the human tongue’s surface. These factors are instrumental to how food or saliva interacts with the tongue and a biomimetic tongue could reduce manufacturers’ reliance on humans when carrying out sensory trials and consumer tests.

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In a statement, study lead author Dr Efren Andablo-Reyes said: “Recreating the surface of an average human tongue comes with unique architectural challenges.

“Hundreds of small bud-like structures called papilla give the tongue its characteristic rough texture that in combination to the soft nature of the tissue create a complicated landscape from a mechanical perspective.

“We focused our attention on the anterior dorsal section of the tongue where some of these papillae contain taste receptors, while many of them lack such receptors.

"Both kinds of papillae play a critical role in providing the right mechanical friction to aid food processing in the mouth with the adequate amount saliva, providing pleasurable mouthfeel perception and proper lubrication for swallowing.