Overview
Topic status: We're looking for students to study this topic.
Tissue-engineered constructs made from nanofibrous matrices closely mimic the extracellular matrix and recapitulate the structure of the musculoskeletal system by providing physical cues to cells. We aim to combine polycaprolactone with bioglass particles which have been shown to have bone inducing properties. We will electrospin these components together to create and optimise a reproducible composite structure. We will next culture bone cells upon the meshes to assess their ability to support bone growth using well establishes techniques. Following this optimisation we will ultimately assess these constructs in-vivo using small animal models to ascertain whether they are capable of supporting bone growth.
Methods and techniques that will be used/developed in the course of this project:
- preparation of polymeric meshes using electrospinning techniques
- morphological characterization of meshes using light microscopy and SEM
- cell culture techniques
- cell culture assays to assess cell attachment number, metabolic activity and differentiation
- confocal microscopy to assess cell morphology and expression of adhesion proteins
- histology to assess bone tissue formation within the meshes
- image analysis techniques to identify and quantify stained tissue components
- Study level
- PhD, Honours
- Supervisors
- QUT
- Organisational unit
Science and Engineering Faculty
- Research area
- Contact
- Please contact the supervisor.
Dr Mia Woodruff
Dr Tim Dargaville
