The matrix matters: investigating the interplay between ECM composition and fibroblast activation in the context of fibrosis (BEP/MEP)

Description

Fibrosis is a pathological process characterized by the excess deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) components which leads to over-production of scar tissue and can disrupt normal tissue architecture and function. The microenvironment plays a crucial role in the progression of fibrosis, by activating local fibroblasts. It is through the ECM that these cells receive environmental cues, both in biochemical (e.g. growth factors) and biophysical (e.g. mechanical stress) forms, that can persistently activate fibroblasts.

Despite knowing that the ECM is constantly remodeled during fibrosis, there is limited understanding of how different ECM compositions affect fibroblast activation. This gap exists because many studies use only a single type of ECM protein for substrate coating, which does not reflect the complex environment in vivo. This project aims at understanding the role of ECM composition on cell behaviour in the context of fibrosis. To this end, in vitro models will be developed with different ECM coatings, utilizing substrates ranging from traditional materials like glass to elasticity-tunable hydrogels that mimic the physiological environment more closely.

Techniques/methods applied in the project:
In this experimental project, you will gain expertise in cell culture of human primary cells, confocal microscopy, and fabricating hydrogels of different stiffnesses. Depending on your interests, there will also be opportunities to perform Total Internal Reflection Microscopy (TIRF) imaging and to fabricate protein micropatterns using UV litography to confine cells to specific geometries.

Contact

Ivy Liang (I.Liang@tudelft.nl) and Prof. Dr. Gijsje Koenderink (G.H.Koenderink@tudelft.nl)