Research Projects
Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are ubiquitous in the native extracellular matrix or tissues. We derive GAG-mimetics from plants and other sources and tailor their structure to improve function. One of the major biological roles of GAGs and GAG mimetics is their ability to sequester growth factors, which can significantly impact cell function.
We are developing scaffolds made of zein, which is a corn-derived protein, as a alternative to animal-derived proteins.
Piezoelectric materials can generate electrical charge in response to minute deformations. We are developing synthetic and natural piezoelectric biomaterials for a variety of applications.
We utilize Schwann cells, other cell types and biological factors in combination with scaffolds to treat spinal cord injuries.
