Our Research
Our lab leverages the natural response of stem cells to the surrounding mechanical properties to control their production of secretory factors and utilize the enhanced production of specific factors for therapeutic purposes.
The current research directions include:
- Treating muscle fibrosis through the enhanced matrix remodeling property of engineered mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (NIH funded project: R00-AR079561)
- Correcting aberrant redox balance in fibrotic tissue via the action of anti-oxidative enzymes from engineered stem cells
- Promoting post-injury muscle regeneration by enhanced proliferation of muscle progenitor cells
Mechanical Characteristics of Novel Biomaterial
Our mechanobiology inspired cell-based therapy stems from the development of rational design biomaterials with tailor mechanical properties. Every novel biomaterial developed in our lab will be mechanically characterized and refined until a desired mechanical property is achieved.
Miniaturization of Biomaterials System through Microfluidic Technology
Our microfluidic system can miniaturize the biomaterial-engineered stem cell product into injectable scale, allowing direct administration to the target tissue, without any surgery.
Validation of Novel Cell-Based Therapy in Experimental Animal
Our research covers from benchtop experimentation to validation in animal model to ensure the therapeutic potential of our novel engineered stem cell products.