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Design of synthetic nanostructured hydrogel to regulate microvascularisation

To date, natural or synthetic ECM-mimicking hydrogels are widely used as 3D scaffolds for vascular engineering. Recapitulating the main features of native extracellular matrix, such as the hierarchical porosity, is critical to allow vascularisation and diffusion of nutrients. This project aims to develop nanoporous scaffolds by moulding semi-synthetic polymer-based hydrogels crosslinked via thiol-ene chemistry. This system will be used to stimulate microvascularisation and explore how endothelial cells and pericytes respond to the chemical and physical cues of the scaffold. Finally, the hydrogel will be integrated and investigated into organ-on-chip platforms.

Interests: Science, tennis, reading and cooking.