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Developing Novel Treatment Options for Tissue Regeneration and Pain Reduction
Tissue Regeneration & Mechanobiology Lab (TRAM)
The Tissue Regeneration & Mechano-Biology Lab, headed by Prof. Wuertz-Kozak, aims to understand the cellular mechanisms underlying specific pathologies, with a focus on inflammation, and to utilize this knowledge for the development of novel treatment options that allow for tissue regeneration and pain reduction.
Specifically, the group uses cells, biomaterials, biologics, genome engineering and mechanical cues to promote tissue regeneration.
Lab News
- July 31, 2024
Goodbye to Mikkael Lamoca
Mikkael Lamoca, a vital member of our lab for many years, will continue his research endeavors at NUS with a Fulbright Scholarship. For more info click here.
- July 1, 2024
Welcome to Lucia Morales
A warm welcome to our new PhD student, Lucia Morales, who will work on our NIH R21 project. https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucia-morales-513385227
- May 30, 2024
ISSLS Meeting 2024
Our lab was well represented at the Meeting of the International Society for the Study of the Lumbar Spine (ISSLS) in Milan, Italy (two talks, special poster, symposium chair). https://www.isslsmeetings.org/
- May 11, 2024
Congratulations to Dr. Petra Cazzanelli
Celebrating our team member Petra Cazzanelli during the 2024 doctoral convocation and hooding ceremony. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9VrCrDPCvBM
Research
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.
Our People
Karin Wuertz-Kozak, Ph.D.
Kate Gleason Endowed Full Professor
Department of Biomedical Engineering
Rochester Institute of Technology
