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Novel research techniques grow tissues

February 18, 2015

Elizabeth Dirk

The science of tissue engineering, scientists growing new organs in a laboratory setting, is the type of futuristic technology most often seen in movies or TV shows. But it’s closer than one might think, literally; it’s happening right here on campus.

Elizabeth Dirk, assistant professor in the department of chemical and nuclear engineering, is leading an interdisciplinary team in the Center for Biomedical Engineering, working to tackle several aspects of this complex science. In particular, her lab focuses on the regeneration of heart valves and bone tissue to replace current transplant options, such as biological, from a donor animal or human, or synthetic.

“As tissue engineers, if we can figure out a way to make your valve grow back as healthy tissue or implant healthy tissue and have it integrate into your body, (engineered tissues) would be the ideal course. Your body would be able to take over that tissue, regenerate, and keep it healthy for you,” said Kent Coombs, a biomedical science graduate student in Dirk’s lab. read more