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Departments of Dermatology and Biomedical Engineering

Engineering Smart Bandage Bio Nanomaterials for Healing and Investigating Skin

We manipulate materials on the micro, nano and molecular level scales to design novel biomedical devices. In particular we exploit the optical, morphological and surface chemical properties of nanomaterials and investigate their potential toxicity in developing Smart Bandages for treatment of chronic skin disorders and wound healing. Our multidiciplinary approach integrates research in porous silicon optical sensors, quantum dots, and polymer supports. 

Nanocomposite materials are rationally designed to promote healing:
1. by preventing infection through early detection (Biosensors)
2. by delivering phototherapeutic red light (PhotoAid)
3. by monitoring drug delivery (Natrix Strips) and
4. by controlling cellular phenotype and proliferation (Biomaterials).

Because Smart Bandages contact skin the potential for nanoporous silicon and semiconductor quantum dots to translocate through the stratum cormeum must be determined under both normal and pathologic conditions. We are developing an in vivo mouse model to investigate translocation mechanisms and to quantify the potential toxicological impact (Nanotoxicology).