The University of Glasgow
Centre for the
Cellular Microenvironment
Dr Udesh Dhawan introduces some of his recent research on how integrins can be utilised in growth factor activation and the development of a mechanobiology-based bone regeneration platform. Integrins are specialised adhesion proteins that enable cells to attach and survive. Take away integrins, and we take away the ability of cells that rely on adhesion …
In this piece, Dr Matthew Walker summarises the importance of two recently published reviews on the topic of mechanobiology in both cancer and fibrosis, both of which can be accessed here: Walker M, Morton JP. Hydrogel models of pancreatic adenocarcinoma to study cell mechanosensing. Biophysical Reviews. 2024;16(6):851-70. (doi: 10.1007/s12551-024-01265-8) Walker M, Gourdon D, Cantini M. …
Dr Kimia Witte has a paper accepted and published in Materials Today Bio journal. The paper looks at bacteria laden microgels as autonomous 3D environments for stem cell engineering and is a result of the research in the lab funded by EPSRC. You can read the full paper here.
We have started the year with three of our latest papers featured on the covers of journals. The researchers that produced the papers are giddy with happiness to have these incredibly pretty pieces of art to show off. Thanks to the very talented Mark, Sara and Alex! These are the papers: High Efficiency BMP‐2 Coatings: Nanoscale Coatings …
A video abstract of our recent paper published on the journal Advanced Materials is now available on youtube. “Bacteria‐Based Materials for Stem Cell Engineering” reports our latest progress in our living biointerfaces line of research. Jake, Alex and the rest of the team utilise genetically modified non-pathogenic bacteria to control and direct stem cell biology!
Stem cells can develop into many different cell types and allow our bodies to heal, such as when making new bone after a fracture. The immediate environment around them is highly specialised, it conveys both mechanical and chemical signals to the stem cells, and this has a big effect on their activity. They ‘decide’ what …