Research and Publications: TERC Core Research

• Protein Scaffold Designs to Control Stem Cell Differentiation
  The mechanistic basis for stem cell responses to scaffold structure, morphology and chemistry is a focus. Designing scaffolds to optimize tissue-specific responses of stem cells towards functional tissues.
• Methodologies to Select and Expand Stem Cell Populations
  Primary emphasis is on developing new insight and tools to efficiently expand stem cells without loss of differentiation potential. Biomaterial matrix-mediated effects on stem cell differentiation is an area of focus.
• New Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering
  Modeling and fabrication to meet needs for degradable polymeric scaffolds that provide adequate mechanical support and cell signaling in developing tissues (in vitro and in vivo).

• Bioreactor Systems with Local Control of Cellular Environment and Signaling Capability Design and utilization of bioreactors with interstitial fluid flow through cultured tissues and in situ application of biophysical signals.
• Bioreactors with Real-Time Nondestructive Imaging Capability
  Advanced bioreactors to monitor, in real-time, the effects of mechanical, hydrodynamic, and electrical signals on cell and tissue function.