Our Research
Polymer Synthesis
Polymer synthesis is a crucial research area in the group, where novel materials with unique properties are being designed and created. We specialize in developing biodegradable polymers for use in various biomedical applications, including drug delivery and tissue engineering, as well as in environmental utilizations. Advanced techniques are used to carry out polymer synthesis, purification, and characterization. In addition, new polymerization methods and composite materials are also being explored to enhance the mechanical and biological properties of the materials.
Synthesis of PGSA
Tissue Engineering
Tissue engineering is a promising strategy to reconstruct damaged body parts through the combination of cells, growth factors, and scaffolds. To create a suitable environment for cell attachment and proliferation, biodegradable and biocompatible polymers are designed, synthesized, and applied as scaffold materials. Moreover, 3D-printing technology is utilized as the main fabrication method to precisely control micro-structures. Development of new projects is ongoing to further meet the clinical requirements of each tissue type including liver, skeleton system, and cardiovascular tissues.
Liver regeneration project
Vascular tissue regeneration project
Bone tissue regeneration project
Biodegradation
Biodegradable plastics are under quick development as an alternative to conventional plastics. To verify the biodegradability of these plastics, compost, soil, and seawater biodegradation systems in the lab were built according to standards established by ASTM International. Under aerobic environments, CO2 transformed from the plastics by the microorganisms is the criteria to verify biodegradability. Research on biodegradable plastics and bacterial species for biodegradation is ongoing based on these testing systems.
