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Perfusion decellularization-recellularization bioreactor for laryngeal tissue engineering

Project Overview

The purpose of this project is to design a bioreactor for whole organ tissue engineering of the human larynx, as well as comparable large animal models such as the pig or dog larynx. This tissue engineering approach involves two main processes: perfusion-decellularization of the larynx to create an acellular scaffold, and perfusion-recelluarization of the acellular scaffold using vocal fold fibroblasts and other cell sources.

The basic design elements for the bioreactor will include:

1. Provision of the flow/circulation of perfusion medium, such as decellularization solution, nutrient medium, cell suspension, etc. through the vasculature (i.e., the two common carotid arteries) of the dissected larynx; and possibly through the airway lumen as well. 2. Possible provision of humidifed air through trachea for appropriate hydrodynamic stimuli. 3. A sterile (autoclavable) chamber as the main chamber of the bioreactor to culture the dissected larynx and allowing medium exchange. 4. Regulation of perfusion rate and air flow rate by pumps.

Team Picture

Team members from left to right: Brett Napiwocki, Taylor Milne, Armand Grabowski, Sara Schmitz, Ben Smith
Team members from left to right: Brett Napiwocki, Taylor Milne, Armand Grabowski, Sara Schmitz, Ben Smith

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Contact Information

Team Members

  • Sara Schmitz - Team Leader
  • Brett Napiwocki - Co-Communicator
  • Taylor Milne - Co-Communicator
  • Benjamin Smith - BSAC
  • Armand Grabowski - BWIG

Advisor and Client

  • Dr. Tom Yen - Advisor
  • Prof. Nathan Welham - Client
  • Zhen Chang - Alternate Contact

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