Sensing the Tension: Investigation of a Role for the Integrin as a Mechanotransducer of Hypertrophic Signaling and Growth in Skeletal Muscle
Marni Boppart, Department of Kinesiology and Community Health

Tuesday, April 23, 2013
1000 MNTL, 12:00 - 1:00 PM

Abstract: Resistance exercise or application of mechanical strain to skeletal muscle can dramatically stimulate growth as a result of increased protein synthesis. Mechanical stimulation can elicit an increase in hypertrophic signaling and myotube size in the absence of systemic factors, yet the mechanosensor underlying these positive adaptations in muscle has not been identified. Despite the fact that the integrin has the potential to act as an intrinsic stimulator for growth in response to strain, few studies have examined the myotube response to strain and a role for the integrin in this process has not been established. This session will provide evidence for the integrin as an intrinsic and extrinsic modulator of hypertrophic signaling and muscle growth in response to strain.

 

The Development of an Optically Controlled Skeletal Muscle Biological Actuator Using Stereolithography
Caroline Cvetkovic, Bioengineering

Tuesday, March 26, 2013
1000 MNTL, 12:00 - 12:30 PM

Abstract: We have used a 3D printing technology (stereolithography, or SLA) to create a hydrogel structure capable of actuation when combined with skeletal muscle cells and fibrous ECM proteins. The energy of polymerization from the SLA can be altered to achieve structures with different stiffness values and hence different bending and actuation. The 'bio-bot' biological actuator is capable of achieving net motion through asymmetry and can also be controlled using optogenetic-based methods.

 

Integrating Mechanical Cues and Biomolecular Patterns in a Collagen-Glycosaminoglycan Scaffold for Tendon-Bone Junction Repair
Laura Mozdzen, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering

Tuesday, March 26, 2013
1000 MNTL, 12:30 - 1:00 PM

Abstract: The tendon-bone junction does not heal properly on its own, and current medical techniques are insufficient. Strategies to regenerate multi-tissue structures must consider the biochemical and mechanical heterogeneities of the tendon-bone junction (TBJ). We are developing a collagen-GAG scaffold on which mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) will be driven towards an osteogenic or tenogenic lineage based on spatially patterned biomolecules and mechanical cues. We are immobilizing biomolecules in a spatially selective manner using benzophenone (BP) photo-lithographic patterning to mimic the natural heterogeneities of the TBJ, in addition to manipulating the geometry of the interface to disperse stress concentrations. We have demonstrated the ability to pattern proteins via BP chemistry with concanavalin A (ConA). We have also demonstrated the ability to vary the stiffness of our substrate without affecting protein patterning. By combining these two tools, we have been able to explore the effect of stiffness on biomolecular response. Another approach to creating a more robust interface is to focus on the junction, where stress is concentrated due to the differences in material properties. We are looking at biomimetic strategies, and are replicating the interdigitated geometry found in the scales of armored fish to efficiently transfer mechanical stresses from tendon to bone without failure. We varied the degree of interdigitation between compartments by changing the angle, and therefore number, of teeth across the interface and the diffusion time before scaffold creation. As more interfacial area was created, the greater the interfacial strength during tensile testing. Spatially patterned biomolecules across a multi-compartment scaffold with a mechanically robust junction will eventually be combined into a single scaffold for efficiently regenerating the tendon-bone junction.

 

Characterization and Effect of Engineered Solid and Mesoporous Silica Particle Physical Properties on In Vitro Toxicity
Kennedy Nguyen, Department of Biological Engineering and Small-scale Technologies at the University of California, Merced

Tuesday, February 12, 2013
1000 MNTL, 12:00 - 12:30 PM

Abstract: Mesoporous silica, due to their unique properties, such as high surface area, large pore volume, tunable pore size, narrow pore distribution, and good chemical and thermal stability, are highly suitable for controlled release applications such as drug delivery. Furthermore, they can be functionalized to permit simultaneous diagnostic capabilities such as monitoring of drug delivery and treatment efficacy. However, biocompatibility, toxicity and biodegradation of these particles are not yet completely understood. Here, we tested the biocompatibility of mesoporous silica with THP-1 human derived macrophages in vitro and compared these results to solid silica of similar size. A variety of materials parameters were characterized to test correlation with biocompatibility, including size, surface area, agglomeration, surface charge, external surface area, pore volume and integrity. These results show that mesoporous silica is more toxic compared to solid silica on a per mass dose. Also, lipid peroxidation appears to be involved in the toxicity of mesoporous silica.

 

Combining Three-dimensional Cell Culture Models and Chemical Imaging for Under-standing Fibroblast-epithelial Interactions During Early Breast Cancer Progression
Sarah E. Holton, Bioengineering

Tuesday, February 12, 2013
1000 MNTL, 12:30 - 1:00 PM

Abstract: Carcinomas, including skin, breast, prostate, lung, and colon cancers, comprise the most common types of cancer in the United States. The tumor microenvironment, or stroma, plays a significant role in regulating the progression of confined carcinomas. Many stromal cell types have been implicated in disrupting tissue homeostasis and tumor progression. We have developed a three-dimensional cell culture model to investigate how fibroblasts in particular influence epithelial proliferation and invasion. We also use Fourier Transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopic imaging to correlate label-free chemical signatures with cancerous phenotypes in cell culture and tissue. By co-culturing human mammary fibroblasts with normal and cancerous mammary epithelial cells, we can begin to understand the paracrine interactions involved in controlling early breast cancer progression.

 

The Promise of Patient Engagement in Cancer Research
Leslie Hammersmith
Senior Manager in Learning Technologies and Trained Cancer Research Advocate

Tuesday, January 29, 2013
1000 MNTL, 12:30 - 1:00 PM

Bio: Leslie Hammersmith is a Senior Manager in Learning Technologies at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. A 6-year breast cancer survivor diagnosed at the age of 36, Leslie is a trained Cancer Research Advocate. She was a keynote speaker at the Society for Clinical Research Associates 2012 Annual Conference and has certification from AACR Scientist Survivor Program, Research Advocacy Network, Coalition of Cancer Cooperative Groups Patient Advocate training, and ASCO Patient Advocate programs. In 2009 Leslie was a founding member of the Champaign-Urbana Affiliate of Young Survival Coalition, the premier global organization dedicated to the critical issues unique to young women who are diagnosed with breast cancer. Leslie is a member of the YSC Research Think Tank, which is bringing together the research, advocacy and clinical communities to identify key research areas specific to improving the quality and quantity of life for young women affected by breast cancer.

 

Micro-patterned Core-Shell Alginate Fibers via Raleigh Instability
Joshua Grolman, Materials Science and Engineering

Tuesday, January 29, 2013
1000 MNTL, 12:00 - 12:30 PM

Abstract: In this communication, we propose a method of micro-patterning alginate gel fibers with aqueous core, alginate shell architecture in a one-step and continuous process.