The primary basic science research interests of our laboratory are in the area of physiological mechanisms of maintaining substrate transport from blood to tissue. This broad topic covers studies on whole animals, such as rats and mice, as well as studies on whole organ, hemorheological, microvascular, cellular, ultrastructural, and molecular levels. The current projects include:
1) control of blood flow and flow distribution in the microcirculation;
2) the effects of synthetic and biologic implants on substrate transport to tissues;
3) the physiological adaptation of the microcirculation and mitochondria to chronic hypoxia, hyperoxia, or cold, and the subsequent alteration in oxygen transport;
4) mathematical modeling of tissue oxygen tension distribution and angiogenesis.
5) tissue engineering; combining isolated cells with biomaterials to form specialized composite structures for implantation, with particular emphasis on endothelial cell physiology and its alteration by isolation and seeding on biomaterials;
6) decreasing the thrombogenicity of synthetic blood vessels and improving their overall performance and biocompatibility;
7) the investigation of tissue damage resulting from abnormal perfusion (e.g., relative ischemia, anoxia, etc.) and therapies which minimize ischemic damage;
8) the abnormal development of tumor microcirculation and its effect on tumor oxygenation;
9) measurement of tissue blood flow and oxygenation as an indicator of tissue viability and functional potential;
10) development of biocompatible materials for soft tissue reconstruction or augmentation;
11) molecular and cellular effects of ultraviolet light on skin which can lead to cancer, and therapies which may minimize damage;
12) wound healing in bone and soft tissues, with special emphasis on the detection and treatment of infection and its effects on healing.
13) improving the outflow facility of ophthalmologic devices implanted to reduce elevated intraocular pressures found in patients with glaucoma.
Future studies will continue to focus on improving the biocompatibility of biosynthetic implants. Additional new emphasis may be placed on investigating the effects of radiation on wound healing and methods of minimizing the consequences of radiation exposure. Specific collaborations with faculty in Biomedical Engineering include improving the biocompatibility of biosensors, surface modification of implanted devices, and transplanting endothelial cells onto small diameter synthetic vascular grafts.
