Tissue Mechanics and Mechanobiology (Billiar)
Description of the Research
Our research goal is to broaden the understanding of the influence of mechanical stimulation on the growth, development, and healing of connective tissues. We utilize engineered three-dimensional constructs as model systems to study the effect of multiaxial stimulation on the cell physiology, matrix biochemistry, and biomechanics of soft tissues and biomaterials. Changes in cell phenotype are assessed by physiological, histological, and biochemical markers. Biomechanical evaluation includes sub-failure and failure micro-mechanical characterization and constitutive modeling. We are also studying the mechanics and composition of native collagenous connective tissues and how they are affected by processing prior to being used as implantable biomaterials. Knowledge gained from these studies will be applied to the study of normal and pathological tissue growth and development, wound healing, and the creation of bioartificial tissues in vitro (i.e., functional tissue engineering and regenerative medicine).
Description of Space, Resource, and Specialty Equipment Used:
The Biomechanics and Tissue Mechanics and Mechanobiology is located at 306 Salisbury Labs. The laboratory houses standard cell culture equipment (CO2 incubators, laminar hood, microscopes, etc.), biochemistry equipment (96 well plate reader, electrophoresis systems, gel imaging system, etc.), and custom mechanical stimulation and characterization devices.
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