Description:

"Bridging the Gap: In vitro Preclinical Models to Investigate the Role of Macrophages in Tissue Regeneration"

ABSTRACT: 

Cell-material interactions are fundamental in shaping cellular behavior within biomaterials, particularly in the realm of tissue regeneration. This presentation focuses on the intricate interplay between macrophages, pivotal immune cells, and biomaterials, with a specific emphasis on their roles in orchestrating tissue repair processes. Leveraging a 3D poly (ethylene glycol) (PEG) biomaterial, we investigate how macrophages influence blood vessel development within this engineered matrix. Furthermore, we manipulate the PEG-based biomaterial to modulate macrophage stimulation, elucidating their critical role in directing tissue generation.

The aging demographic faces diminished healing capacities, coinciding with a decline in macrophage efficacy. To decipher this phenomenon, we construct a biomaterial model system to probe how aging impacts macrophage-mediated tissue healing. This endeavor aims not only to elucidate age-related changes in macrophage function but also to explore therapeutic interventions aimed at restoring macrophage vitality. By unraveling the complexities of tissue regeneration in the elderly, we seek to unveil novel insights into macrophage dynamics and pave the way for targeted therapeutic interventions.

Moreover, our exploration extends to understanding how the extracellular matrix (ECM) modulates macrophage behavior. Through innovative biomaterial designs, we scrutinize the influence of ECM ligands on macrophage activation and homeostasis, unraveling the intricate signaling cues dictating tissue regeneration. By deciphering the nuanced interplay between ECM components and macrophage function, we aspire to devise novel strategies for augmenting tissue repair and fostering healing processes.

This multifaceted approach holds promise in revolutionizing our understanding of macrophage biology within biomaterial contexts and propelling advancements in regenerative medicine, ultimately offering potential solutions to age-related tissue degeneration and enhancing therapeutic outcomes. 

BIOGRAPHY: 

Dr. Erika Moore is an Assistant Professor in the Fischell Department of Bioengineering at the University of Maryland, College Park. She defended her Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from Duke University in May 2018. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Engineering from the Johns Hopkins University in 2013. Her work focuses on understanding the role of macrophage immune cells in tissue repair and regeneration through the design of in vitro preclinical models, spanning age-associated macrophage function, macrophage-vasculitis mediation in lupus, and macrophage integrin ligand interactions within the extracellular matrix. The mission of the Moore lab is to engineer biomaterial models that leverage the regenerative potential of the immune system across health inequities. To execute on this mission, Dr. Moore develops compassionate innovators equipped to transform biomedical research. Recently acknowledged as Forbes 30 Under 30 in the Healthcare category, Dr. Moore’s notable awards include the N.I.H. R35 Maximizing Investigators Research Award, the Lupus Research Alliance Career Development Award, the BMES Rita Schaffer Award, the 3M Non-Tenured Faculty Award and NSF CAREER Award.