Current biomaterials-based methods for in vitro ovarian follicle culture enable individual follicles or follicle classes to survive and carry out basic functions of the ovary, including hormone and release of mature oocytes upon gonadotropin stimulation. However, these current strategies do not support the survival and maturation of isolated primordial and...
Improving cancer treatments are saving the lives of many young women, however these treatments often lead to premature infertility. The in vitro development of ovarian follicles would provide reproductive options to these women by supporting immature follicle growth following ovarian tissue cryobanking. In addition, the system provides a platform to...
The de novo design of bio-inspired materials with precisely controlled properties is challenging, but has potential applications in nano-biotechnology. Applications range from nanometer scaled assemblies to three-dimensional scaffolds for tissue engineering. Genetic engineering of protein-based polymers offers distinct advantages over traditionally synthesized polymers, de novo proteins can be produced with...
Despite three decades of intense research into small diameter blood vessel tissue engineering, constructs developed to date lack the elastin necessary for long term patency and the prevention of aneurysms. The suboptimal biochemical composition suggests that new biochemical and mechanical culture methods must be developed. In addition, current biomaterials for...
For bone regeneration, there is need for biodegradable, synthetic scaffolds that direct the formation of <em>de novo</em> mineralized tissue. Orthopaedic implants additionally require mechanical function. The work described herein attempts to address both of these needs. The general strategy involves integrating molecularly designed tissue engineering scaffolds with porous metallic foams...