Research: Hyaluronan

Synthetic Extracellular Matrix (sECM) Biomaterials for Clinical Applications.

We have developed many forms and uses based on the synthetic, covalently crosslinked extracellular matrix (sECM) for 3-D culture of cells in vitro and in vivo. The glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) hyaluronan (HA), chondroitin sulfate (CS), and heparin have been covalently modified with reactive thiol groups and can be crosslinked in many combinations to produce novel sECM hydrogels.. One form of sECM, consisting exclusively of a crosslinked HA derivative, promotes scar-free healing in wound repair and adhesion prevention models. Another form of the sECM, with gelatin and HA derivatives, allows in vitro and in vivo growth of healthy cellularized tissues by seeding with primary and cell-line derived cells.  Cells tested to date include fibroblasts, chondrocytes, hepatocytes, adipose or bone marrow derived stem cells, and a variety of endothelial and epithelial cells. A third type of sECM, with a co-crosslinked derivative of heparin, mimics a heparan sulfate proteoglycan and affords controlled release of growth factors and promote angiogenesis and wound repair.  We have obtained in vivo results include repair of cutaneous wounds, abdominal and tendons injuries, bone and cartilage defects, and soft tissues such as vocal folds, sinus mucosa, and eardrums.

This research area is currently supported by a Centers of Excellence Program grant from the State of Utah for the Center for Therapeutic Biomaterials. In addition, specific projects in growth factor release, vocal fold repair, and new biomaterial development are supported by NIH and NSF funding.

Publications Lists

Testimony for: FDA Critical Path Initiative Hearing at UU, June 1, 2007:
 "Unplugging the Drug Pipeline and The Promise of Personalized Medicine" by Glenn D. Prestwich