Projects at UAH
Artificial Lymphoid Organ Design For Monitoring Of Human Immune Cell Functions
Research Mentors
Research Mentors
Kyung-Ho Roh, Ph.D., Associate Professor
Office: 301 Sparkman Dr.
117 Engineering Building
Phone: 256-824-5292
Email: kyung-ho.roh@uah.edu
Research problem and objective
Research problem and objective
Our research group (Molecular and Cellular Immunoengineering Laboratory) is interested in both biomaterials and immunology. We connect these two disciplines by developing various novel biomaterials and integrated systems for the engineering and modulation of immune cells. We aim to extend our research activities toward biomaterials-enabled cellular and molecular immunotherapies for cancers, infections, and autoimmune diseases.
In this REU program, we will study immune-cell-compatible hydrogels and their integration into microfluidic device designs. These hydrogels are viscoelastic and mimic the extracellular microenvironments of physiological lymphoid organs. By integrating these hydrogels into suitable microfluidic devices, we aim to create an artificial lymphoid organ model with which the functions and behaviors of human immune cells can be measured and monitored in a precisely controlled manner.
(Upper) Live immune cells (green dots) encapsulated within a viscoelastic hydrogel tube; (Lower) A design of the microfluidic device drawn by Solid Edge.
Student Research Activities
Student Research Activities
During the 10-weeks of the REU project, the student will be exposed to interdisciplinary topics, including polymer chemistry and physics, cell biology, biomaterials, 3D printing, and microfluidics. In particular, the student will be engaged in
Developing a series of viscoelastic hydrogel formulations and characterizing their properties using a rheometer
Fabrication of the microfluidic devices using 3D printing and soft lithography techniques
Basic culture and manipulation of immune cells
Integration of hydrogels into microfluidic devices and monitoring of immune cells under an optical and fluorescent microscope
The expected outcome is developing an artificial ex-vivo model that enables a long-term culture and monitoring of immune cells under a controlled environment.
Required qualifications and skills
Required qualifications and skills
Biomedical engineering/chemical engineering/mechanical engineering majors
Knowledge of college-level biology, physiology, or immunology is preferred
Experience with 3D design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Solid Edge) is preferred
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