At Morehouse College, one of the nation's top liberal arts colleges for African American Men, research experiences is limited. However, the Mendenhall Lab at Morehouse College uses a different mechanism to solve biological problems using biomaterials. Our key focus is on creating biomaterials that alter biological mechanisms and incorporate synthetic biology techniques. Our group fabricates and manufactures three-dimensional biomaterial scaffolds using chemical strategies to mitigate biological processes that promote recapitulating native articular tissue properties. Using various chemical strategies, we fabricate hydrogels for 3D polymeric networks that serve as tissue scaffolds. We began exploring how to exploit stimuli-responsive properties of biomaterials that respond to temperature with tunable mechanics and free radical quenching properties under hypoxic conditions. The significance of these materials is that they established 3D scaffolds that can mitigate cellular damage while providing a mechanically robust material construct to support regenerative tissue growth.<br/>Recently, we have begun evaluating the spatiotemporal distribution of polymeric and therapeutic components and the effect of reactive oxygen species (ROS) hydrogels. This work elucidates further the molecular details of oxidative reactions that occur within inter-penetrating hyaluronic acid networks (HA). Further, we use characterization tools to understand how free radical scavenging chemotactic agents affect polymeric chain degradation, stereochemical conformation, and macromolecular function under oxidative stress. Next, we 3D print engineering heterogeneous and complex biomaterials to guide cell proliferation and patterning. This spatial patterning of materials is used to guide cellular orientation and response. This approach shows promise in influencing tissue growth with spatiotemporal patterning that effects chemical and mechanical properties in 3D scaffolds.

Creating the next generation of therapeutic biomaterials with spatiotemporal control for regenerative tissue engineering

Where thousands of chemistry professionals meet to share ideas and advance scientific and technical knowledge. Spring 2023 abstracts, posters, and presentations will launch at the end of March.

ACS Spring 2023

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.