Research

 Research Interests

Based on the researches related with cell engineering, tissue engineering, gene delivery system, and biofunctional polymers (biodegradable polymers, hydrogels, and nanoparticles), our laboratory is focused on the regeneration of tissues and organs that were damaged by diseases or accidents. Starting from the basic studies investigating the interaction between various types of cells and synthetic polymers, we are trying to understand and utilize the biological, chemical, and physical factors that are critical for therapeutic applications. Our research fields involve interdisciplinary research tools and methodologies from medical science, chemical engineering, pharmaceutical science, and veterinary science.

CELL AND TISSUE ENGINEERING
In general, our laboratory is trying to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of adult stem cells that are transplanted to the wound site for tissue regeneration. To improve the therapeutic efficacy of the adult stem cells, we are focusing on the fundamental research topics and methodologies that can enhance the cell viability, cell differentiation mechanisms, cell differentiation efficacy, and mass production system. We apply the results obtained from the cell studies to the various types of animal model to confirm the therapeutic efficacy and safety for future clinical trials. The major categories that we are interested in are tissue regeneration related with skin, bone, cartilage, nerve, and heart. Our laboratory also performs the researches related with intractable diseases (cardiovascular system, nervous system, and diabetic), cancer therapy, and bioimaging.

BIODEGRADABLE POLYMERS, ORGANIC AND INORGANIC NANOPARTICLES, CANCER THERAPY, BIOIMAGING
To improve the therapeutic efficacy of adult stem cells, we use various types of synthetic polymers, hydrogels, and nanoparticles for cell, drug, and gene delivery carriers. For synthetic polymer and hydrogel, we are focused on synthesizing novel biodegradable polymers and hydrogels that degrade after transplantation without cytotoxicity. We are also interested in both organic and inorganic nanoparticles with novel properties that can be applied to the tissue regeneration, cancer therapy, and bioimaging.