Devin Bridgen

Whitaker International Fellow, 2008-09

Home Institution: Cornell University

Host Country, Institution: Switzerland, University Hospital Basel

Project Title: Controlled Angiogenesis via Scaffold and VEGF Manipulation in Cellular IVD Substitutes

Project Abstract:

Utilization of this laboratory's expertise in designing and seeding scaffolds mimicking the natural structures encountered in intervertebral disc (IVD) tissue, and will address the control of angiogenesis. Sustained angiogenic activation or inhibition in a localized area will be achieved by incorporating growth factors (VEGF) and/or derived from paracrine effects of incorporated cells such as stem cells, fibroblasts or chondrocytes.  This project will draw upon my experience in forming controlled 3-D scaffolds and the results will assist in the ultimate goal of creating a structurally organized IVD, allowing for tissue engineering to be integrated into clinical practices.