Welcome

The overall objective of the work conducted in this laboratory is to develop strategies for controlling cell and tissue interactions with biomaterials. Research projects are directed at:

(1) understanding the effects of orthopedic and dental biomaterials on bone cells;
(2) determining the effects of osteotropic biomolecules having therapeutic potential on bone cells; and
(3) modifying biomaterials and surfaces to manipulate cell and tissue responses, which result in preferred outcomes, such as enhanced or accelerated bone formation.

Applications include promoting bone formation around orthopedic and dental implants, healing of bone defects, augmentation of alveolar bone, and regeneration of growth plate.

This lab is equipped to: prepare biomaterial samples; immobilize biomolecules on biomaterial surfaces; form protein- and drug-loaded biodegradable microspheres; fabricate controlled release devices and tissue engineering scaffolds; isolate, culture, and characterize various types of mesenchymal cells; conduct in vitro experiments of cell-biomaterial interactions; carry out in vivo experiments to determine tissue responses; and perform quantitative colorimetric and fluorometric biochemical assays.

Additional information can be found on the other pages of this Web site.

Opportunity for prospective students interested in a doctoral degree: IGERT Fellowships Available