Research
Research Areas
Injectable materials for regenerating orthopaedic tissues
We are trying to develop biomaterials carrier systems for the delivery of drugs and biomolecules needed for the regeneration of orthopaedic tissues that can be delivered through minimally invasive surgical procedures. The aim is to accelerate tissue regeneration and avoidance of major surgeries.
Material systems for 3D Printing/ Bio-printing
Our research focuses on development of bioink formulations based on mineralized decellularized extracellular matrix to form composites inks that are superior in mechanical properties as compared to hydrogels while being able to print cells without compromising their viability. Another focus is on the bio-functionalization of thermoplastic polymers that are commonly used for 3D printing and are biocompatible and FDA approved for multiple application. These have excellent mechanical properties but are not bio-inductive which is essential for supporting regeneration of bone tissue.
In vitro disease models
We are working towards designing tissue engineered models of diseases that can help us develop the pathophysiology of diseases in depth. This knowledge will help us develop treatment strategies to cure them. In vitro disease models also help in drug candidate screening for pharmaceutical industries and can also be used to screen drugs for personalized medicine purposes. These models are a very good replacement for animal models of diseases which hardly mimic the molecular pathophysiology of diseases. Cosmetic industry in India and other countries that have a blanket ban on animal tested cosmetics also benefit from testing their products on these models.
Image below- Osteoarthritic Chondrocyte in in vitro model
Bio-similar Materials
Bio-similar materials are those that can mimic the chemistry of native tissue and help regenerate extracellular matrix that is comparable in chemical composition. This become very important in case of bone as if the nanocomposite between collagen type I and bio-hydroxyapatite is not forming in the tissue engineered constructs, they will never be able to mimic or help regenerate the biomechanical properties of bone tissue. Thus, a major focus of our group is development of biomaterials that can help in biomineralization.
Image below- AFM image of hydroxyapatite formation on extracellular matrix in vitro
Funding Agencies:
