Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering

In our synthesis research, we primarily focus on hydrogels for organ-on-chip models that are capable of self-healing. Our goal is to identify cell-friendly crosslinking mechanisms that function at room or body temperature. We use various chemistries, including hydrazone, methacrylation, and metal coordination complex-based crosslinking. We investigate different triggers for crosslinking, such as temperature and different wavelengths. Our main backbones are hyaluronan and gellan gum, and we aim to use non-animal derived reagents. For 3D bioprinting and easier injection into organ-on-chips, we develop more complex crosslinking systems, such as consecutive double crosslinking systems that create interpenetrating hydrogels.

Our main effort in hydrogel processing is functionalization to control the open time of precursor flow, enabling injection into chips and complex coaxial bioprinting. Another key reason for functionalization is to enhance the cytocompatibility of hydrogels. In polymer and polymer-based composites melt processing, we aim to fabricate fibers, rods, and porous structures. Our focus is on lab-scale extrusion, melt spinning, injection molding, 3D printing, and CO2 gas foaming. The melt-spun fibers can be further processed into various textile structures, including braids, knits, wovens, and non-wovens.

Our goal is to understand the structure-property relationship of hydrogels. Therefore, we develop methods to study micromechanical characteristics, as well as diffusion and microstructure. In addition to actively developing methods for hydrogels, we routinely evaluate all biomaterials for safety, efficacy, and suitability for medical applications. Consequently, our laboratory is well-equipped with experimental and mathematical modeling tools to thoroughly understand the physical, chemical, and biological properties.

Currently we mainly focus to develop and apply soft biomaterials, including hydrogels, for 3D in vitro tissue models. Our strong knowhow in processing and characterization makes us experts in scaffolds for tissue engineering and in implants for regenerative medicine, especially biodegradable orthopedic devices. They have resulted in several companies emerging from our group. As the commercialization of medical materials and devices is highly regulated, we implement regulatory aspects to our research at relatively early stage. We also study how innovative medical devices are accepted to use by clinicians. We want to influence future regulatory requirements and standards for new biomedical innovations.