Laboratory for Advanced Biomaterials

& Matrix Engineering

At the University of New South Wales

Jump to the Research

Cell and Matrix Engineering

Cell state in tissue is ruled by a multivariate presentation of signals that orchestrate diverse forms and functions. Using hydrogel microengineering we are exploring how biochemical, biophysical, and biological cues in the cell and tissue microenvironment orchestrate cell state, matrix synthesis, and hierarchical assembly.

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Cell Responsive Hydrogels

Inspired by how forces in tissue guides matrix deposition and release of sequestered molecules, we aim to develop bioinspired chemistry where an applied force facilitates biomolecule immobilisation and/or release through distinct chemical handles built into the synthetic hydrogel network.

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Biomimetic Composite Materials

Our tissues are composed of composite materials of biopolymers and ceramic structures, with hierarchical order for guiding cell and tissue organization. Using micro- and nano- fabrication techniques we design and develop composite biomaterials that recapitulate these architectures.

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Additive Bioassembly

The form and function of tissue is nurtured through a complex bi-directional interplay between cells and materials. We recognise the critical aspects of both of these parts and work to develop strategies that combine ‘cell engineering’ with ‘biofabrication’ to coax the cells and materials to assemble together.

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Selected Publications

Hierarchical assembly of tryptophan zipper peptides into stress-relaxing bioactive hydrogels

Nat Commun 2023, 14, 6604
Ashley K. Nguyen et. al.
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Magnetic Nanofibrous Hydrogels for Dynamic Control of Stem Cell Differentiation

Biomaterials, 2015, 69, 174-183
Md Shariful Islam et. al.
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Force-mediated molecule release from double network hydrogels

Chemical Communications, 2021, 57, 8484 - 8487
Pavithra (Bhakthi) Jayathilaka et. al.
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Synthetic Bone‐Like Structures Through Omnidirectional Ceramic Bioprinting in Cell Suspensions

Advanced Functional Materials, 2021, 2008216
Sara Romanazzo et. al.
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