Improving the precision of small human tissue biopsy processing

Develop a standardized cutting tool that reliably produces uniform, fat-free tissue biopsies to improve sample viability and consistency in wound-healing research.

Project Overview

In the treatment of extensive burns or wounds, patients rely on emerging treatment research in the field of tissue growth and healing. Currently, studies into the healing properties of porcine skin are conducted to visualize how viable epidermis cells migrate over the site of the wound to promote cell regrowth. However, once in a culture, the porcine tissue samples cannot remain viable unless all fat is removed and the cells are able to absorb the culture media. Additionally, this process of creating samples is not standardized, resulting in samples of varying sizes with jagged edges, which limits the efficiency of sample preparation. To solve this, fabricating a tool that incorporates multiple sample slots, with uniform sizing, and a fixed blade will help to streamline research efficiency and produce more viable samples that can be successfully imaged.