Overview of our research
Our goal is to understand how molecular interactions and forces across several length scales affect function in biology. We are particularly interested in articulated joints and epithelial tissues to better understand molecular and cellular regulation in healthy biointerfaces and help identify the causes of diseases, such as osteoarthritis, lung cancer, or atherosclerosis. The current specific research topics are:
Biotribology
we still have a limited understanding of most aspects of the tribology of our synovial joints. We are pushing the understanding of tribology of natural and implanted synovial joints, especially the intermolecular interactions of synovial fluid components and its interactions with surfaces.
Bioadhesion
To gain a better understanding of how nature controls adhesion, we are investigating the adhesion mechanisms of biological, biologically inspired, and synthetic molecules, especially those relevant to biomedical applications.
Epithelial Mechanobiology
We aim to understand how physical forces and molecular interactions work together to regulate epithelium function under different environmental conditions. To that end, we apply a set of tools to perturb the epithelial cells and quantify forces and biomarkers.
Soft Materials Characterization
We design and characterize soft biomaterials, with a particular focus on hydrogels and polymer-based model systems.
We use force and acoustic spectroscopy, optical microscopy combined with creativity to perform research in our lab.
Our funding agencies and sponsors, past and present
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