Dean’s Seminar Series & the Center for Fibrosis Research featuring Catherine Kuo, PhD – “Therapeutic Strategies to Restore Connective Tissue Matrix Structure and Function”

Dean’s Seminar Series &

the Center for Fibrosis Research

Catherine Kuo, PhD
Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park
Department of Orthopaedics, University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore

Date & Time: Tuesday, June 21st at 12PM ET
Location: New Research Building Auditorium and via Zoom https://georgetown.zoom.us/j/97371848245

Title & Abstract:

“Therapeutic Strategies to Restore Connective Tissue Matrix Structure and Function”

Tendons are highly collagenous connective tissues that transfer forces from muscles to bones to enable skeletal movement and stability. Unfortunately, tendons are highly susceptible to injuries (chronic and acute) and lack the ability to regenerate. Instead, tendons heal as fibrotic scar tissue with abnormal extracellular matrix composition and aberrant mechanical properties. Our research program aims to develop therapeutic approaches that enhance tendon healing outcomes, uniquely informed by mechanisms of embryonic tissue formation. We are characterizing structure-property relationships of embryonic tendons to identify key regulators of tendon formation that may serve as therapeutic targets for adult tendon regeneration. We are also studying the mechanobiology of embryonic tendon development with the goal of developing in utero interventions to prevent and treat tendon-associated musculoskeletal birth deformities.