Tissue Regeneration and Mechanobiology Lab

Tissue Regeneration & Mechanobiology Lab (TRAM)

The Tissue Regeneration & Mechanobiology Lab, led by Prof. Wuertz-Kozak, investigates cellular mechanisms central to inflammation, degeneration, and fibrosis, aiming to translate these insights into innovative therapies. Our research focuses on regenerative approaches for the

musculoskeletal system - primarily the intervertebral disc - as well as skin and lung tissues. We utilize a range of tools, including cells, extracellular vesicles, biomaterials, biologics, genome engineering, and mechanical stimulation, to drive tissue repair and regeneration.

Lab News

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February 24, 2025

RIT News
Our research on how mechanical signals influence viral infections in lungs is being featured in RIT News.
January 1, 2025

Endowment
Professor Dr Wuertz-Kozak was awarded the Harvey J. Palmer Endowed Chair in Biomedical Engineering.
December 18, 2024

Funding Acquisition
Our collaborative project with Dr. Ferran on the mechanobiology of viral infections was funded by the National Science Foundation with $497,000. NSF BMMB
October 21, 2024

Diversity Travel Fellowship Award
Congratulations to Lucia Morales for receiving a Diversity Travel Fellowship Award to attend the 2024 ORS PSRS meeting. https://www.ors.org/psrs-2024-diversityawards/

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TRP Channels in Discogenic Back Pain

Several transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are linked to discogenic back pain, and thus represent promising therapeutic targets.

CRISPR/Cas9 for Musculoskeletal Disorders

CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing can lead to therapies that target the underlying mechanisms of age-related musculoskeletal disorders in a personalized manner.

Electrosprayed Biomaterials for Drug Delivery

Electrospraying is a gentle method to encapsulate drugs into micro- or nanoparticles for sustained release.

Electrospun 3D Skin Models

Advanced organotypic 3D skin models, produced e.g. by electrospinning, will reduce the need for animal experimentation and will advance the capabilities for personalized medicine.

EVs from CRISPR-Modified Stem Cells

CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing of stem cells can be used to promote the production of extracellular vesicles (EVs) with enhanced regenerative and anti-inflammatory properties.

TLR-Associated MicroRNAs

MicroRNAs are small noncoding RNAs that can modulate inflammation and catabolism in health and disease.

Research

Targeting TRCP6: A Novel Approach for Discogenic Chronic Back Pain

Discogenic chronic back pain (DCBP) is a leading cause of disability, often linked to intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration, inflammation, and nerve and blood vessel growth. Current treatments,…
Substrate Stiffness, Topography, and TRPV4 in Disc Mechanotransduction

Over the past decade(s), research has revealed that substrate stiffness and architecture/topography can be recognized by cells, serving as mechanical and topographical cues that ultimately drive cell…
TRPC6 Inhibition for Scleroderma Treatment

Scleroderma is a rare disease characterized by chronic tissue hardening (fibrosis), particularly affecting the skin due to excessive collagen accumulation. Despite extensive research, effective…
Mechanobiology of Viral Infections

In collaboration with Prof. Dr. Ferran (COS, RIT), we investigate the role of mechanosensitive calcium channels in viral infections, specifically focusing on lung fibroblasts and Vesicular Stomatitis…