Biomaterials Engineering Solution Lab

The research interest of our laboratory is developing biomaterial solution for implantology, regenerative medicine and specific diseases by means of surface modification, tissue engineering and nanotechnology. Our research lies at the interfaces of fundamental material science, biology, clinical applications at the macro-, micro- and nano- scale level, where basic understanding of biology inspires the development of novel biomaterials for medical applications. We believe quality work depends on idea, passion and persistence. The students and postdoc fellows who join our group will have opportunities to learn from and work with engineers, biologists and clinicians.

 Tissue engineering

Tissue engineering consists of three categories: scaffold, cell and signals. In our lab, we focus on optimization of scaffold design and fabrication to mimic the in vivo natural environment, to aid and induce tissue regeneration. In our lab, bioceramics, polymer and composite scaffolds with different composition, geometry structure and shapes are fabricated using different techniques, and their effect on bone cell and bone tissue have been evaluated. Currently our research is in the field of controlled biodegradable rate of scaffolds, thereby achieving a controlled release rate of growth factor and drugs. In addition, we are interested in applying the developing biomaterials for specific diseases such as bony birth defects and cancer therapy.

Surface engineering

Surface engineering focuses on implant surface chemistry, texture and mechanical properties to improve performance of dental and orthopedic implant devices. In clinical, osseointegration, which is defined as the direct bone-implant contact, is critical for initial fixation and long-term success of endosseous dental and orthopedic implants. The initial host response after implantation is similar to a common bone wound modified by the presence of the implant. The new bone formation in the gap between the implant surface and host bone consists of three categories: osteogenesis at the implant surface (contact osteogenesis), within the surgical microgap at sites of neovasculization, and the surgical host bone margin (distance osteogenesis). As such, surface features that may influence any or all of these rates of bone formation will have the potential to enhance osseointegration. In our lab, the implant surface chemistry, texture and mechanical properties have been modified via plasma spraying, sputtering, ion implantation and chemical treatment. The chemistry include titanium, hydroxyapatite, zirconia, titania, and biomolecule and growth factor. The enhancement of osseointegraion has been evidenced by in vitro cell culture and in vivo animal study.