Engineering Approaches For Stem Cell-Mediated Musculoskeletal Tissue Repair

Abstract
Advances in early detection of disease and increases in lifespan necessitate new strategies to repair or replace damaged organs and tissues. While stem cells hold immense promise for tissue repair, their successful translation to the clinic has been underwhelming due to challenges in maintaining viability and properly instructing their behavior. My research is directed toward incorporating cues from the native environment and natural extracellular matrix (ECM) into the design of cell culture platforms and musculoskeletal tissue engineered constructs. We are developing materials-based strategies to prolong cell survival, direct the behavior of transplanted or host cells within bone defects, and interrogate the behavior of various cell populations in more physiologically relevant conditions. This talk will feature examples of our recent work in designing biomaterials to instruct cell fate and enhance tissue formation and function for musculoskeletal tissue regeneration and repair.

Learning Objectives
1). Understand current limitations of cell-based approaches to musculoskeletal repair
2). Learn how biomaterials can guide stem cell fate
3). Appreciate the translational potential of materials for cell transplantation and bone regeneration