Regenerative Engineering: Convergence in Action
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Thursday, April 20, 2017 - 4:00pm
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Program
Kewaunee Poster Session
12:00 pm | Fitzpatrick Center Pre-Function Area
Kewaunee Lecture
4:00 pm | Schiciano Auditorium
Achievement and Poster Awards
5:00 pm | Schiciano Auditorium
Kewaunee Reception
5:15 pm | Fitzpatrick Center Auditorium
Abstract
We define Regenerative Engineering as a Convergence of Advanced Materials Science, Stem Cell Science, Physics, Developmental Biology, and Clinical Translation. torWork in the area of musculoskeletal tissue regeneration has focused on a number of biomaterial technologies. Polymeric nanofiber systems create the prospect for biomimetics that recapitulate connective tissue ultrastructure allowing for the design of biomechanically functional matrices, or next generation matrices that create a niche for stem cell activity. Polymer and polymer-ceramic systems can be utilized for the regeneration of bone. Through the use of inducerons, small molecules fostering induction, the design of regeneration-inducing materials can be realized. Hybrid matrices possessing micro and nano architecture can create advantageous systems for regeneration, while the use of classic principles of materials science and engineering can lead to the development of three dimensional systems suitable for functional regeneration of tissues of the knee. Through convergence of a number of technologies, with advanced materials science playing an important role, we believe the prospect of engaging future grand challenges is possible.
Biography
Cato T. Laurencin, M.D., Ph.D. is a University Professor at UCONN. He is the 8th to be designated in UCONN’s over 130 year history. Dr. Laurencin is the Albert and Wilda Van Dusen Distinguished Endowed Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery, Professor of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Professor of Materials Science and Engineering, and Professor of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Connecticut. He directs the Institute for Regenerative Engineering and the Raymond and Beverly Sackler Center at UCONN. Dr. Laurencin earned his B.S.E. in Chemical Engineering from Princeton University and his M.D., Magna Cum Laude, from the Harvard Medical School. He earned his Ph.D. in Biochemical engineering/Biotechnology from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology where he was named a Hugh Hampton Young Fellow.
Dr. Laurencin is an expert in biomaterials, nanotechnology, stem cell science and Regenerative Engineering. He is a member of the editorial boards of 20 journals, and is the Editor-in-Chief of Regenerative Engineering and Translational Medicine. Dr. Laurencin is an elected member of the National Academy of Medicine, the National Academy of Engineering, and an elected Fellow of the National Academy of Inventors, Internationally, he is an elected Fellow of The World Academy of Sciences, and Associate Fellow of the African Academy of Sciences, a Fellow (foreign) of the Indian National Academy of Sciences and an Academician and Fellow (foreign) of the Chinese Academy of Engineering. Dr. Laurencin received the Presidential Faculty Fellow Award from President Bill Clinton, and the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Math and Engineering Mentoring from President Barack Obama. He is a recipient of the National Medal of Technology and Innovation.