On February 21st, Dr. Kevin Lo, Assistant Director of Education for the Connecticut Convergence Institute for Translation in Regenerative Engineering, visited the UConn Department of Mechanical Engineering in Storrs to discuss his regenerative engineering research as well as the educational programs of the CT Convergence Institute. Dr. Lo’s seminar discussed “Harnessing Small Signaling Molecules for Bone Regenerative Engineering: A Convergence Approach”.
Abstract- Clinicians and scientists working in the field of regenerative engineering are actively investigating a wide range of methods to promote musculoskeletal tissue regeneration. Small-molecule-mediated tissue regeneration is emerging as a promising strategy for regenerating various musculoskeletal tissues and several small molecule compounds have been recently discovered as potential signaling molecules for skeletal tissue repair and regeneration. However, a major challenge associated with utilizing these small molecules to regenerate a specific tissue/organ is the delivery of the therapeutic compounds directly to the target site to minimize potential systemic side effects. The presentation will focus on our recent work with small molecules that have the capacity to promote osteoblast differentiation and mineralization. Several proactive controlled delivery approaches have been developed in order to minimize off-target side effects of small molecules and will also be discussed.
The Connecticut Convergence Institute is committed to promoting the professional development of UConn/UConn Health faculty and students, and embracing the diversity of human talent in the community. Here are a few of the offered programs:
- Young Innovative Investigator Program
- Pre-K Scholar Award Program
- M1 Mentorship Award Program
- Research Experience and Mentoring Program