Research Projects

Mechanisms of In-Vivo Remodeling in Tissue Engineered Heart Valves

The goal of this research is to quantify and simulate tissue remodeling events that occur post-implantation and to understand the factors that influence the remodeling rate and the quality and architecture of the ultimate issue. We hypothesize that TEPV implant remodeling is mediated by the level of in-vivo mechanical stimuli to the interstitial cells and developing ECM. Mechanical stimuli will affect the rate of scaffold degradation and the degree of post-implant cellular ingrowth.

Biomechanical Optimization of Tissue Engineered Heart Valves

The focus of this competitive renewal grant is a comprehensive biomechanical evaluation of the in-vitro phase of engineered tissue heart valve development.

GAGs: Functions and Fixation in Bioprosthetic Heart Valves

The long-term goal is to improve BHV function and fatigue durability and thus extend the life of porcine BHV by increasing the retention and stabilization of valvular GAGs (glycosaminoglycans). Co-PI on this Multi-PI grant with Dr. Naren Vyavahare of Clemson University

Mechanobiology and Regenerative Medicine

This project will evaluate the effect of mechanical loading on tissue remodeling. The study will use two in vitro studies with the use of a biologic scaffold derived from the porcine urinary bladder combined with smooth muscle cells harvested from the urinary bladder, vascular wall and esophagus. The study will develop quantitative strategies for the use of mechanical loading to optimally drive tissue remodeling. Co-PI on this Multi-PI grant with Dr. Steven Badylak of the University of Pittsburgh

Fluid-structure simulation for prosthetic heart valves

The long-term goal of this project is thus to develop an understanding of the correlation between specific anatomical markers and normal and bicuspid aortic valve function. A knowledge base will be developed that will provide the clinician a basis for informed application of treatment modalities. Co-PI on this Multi-PI grant with Dr. KB Chandran of the University of Iowa.

Biomechanical Evaluation of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

A collaborative project with David A. Vorp, University of Pittsburgh, to quantify the 3D structure of aneurismal tissues.

Major collaborators:

  • Dr. KB Chandran, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Iowa
  • Dr. William R. Wagner, Departments of Surgery, Bioengineering, and Chemical Engineering, University of Pittsburgh
  • Dr. Ajit P. Yoganathan, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Tech
  • Dr. Frederick J. Schoen, Brigham and WomenÕs Hospital, Harvard Medical School
  • Dr. John Mayer, ChildrenÕs Hospital of Boston, Harvard Medical School
  • Dr. Naren Vyavahare, Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University
  • Drs. Robert and Joseph Gorman, Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania
  • Dr. Robert J. Levy, Department of Cardiology, ChildrenÕs Hospital of Philadelphia.
  • Dr. Steven Badylak, Departments of Surgery and Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh
  • Dr. Katherine Yutzey, ChildrenÕs Hospital of Cincinnati
  • Dr. David A. Vorp, Departments of Surgery and Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh
  • Dr. Kristen Masters, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin