The equipment requested in this proposal is a 3D printer that prints in wax. This equipment will support a variety of research projects including: creating models of the ascending aorta to determine which type of valve replacement might be most effective; creating models of targets in the brain to develop improved therapeutic delivery strategies by direct injections; and investigating the use of printed networks to elucidate brain perfusion dynamics.
This project aims to obtain a specialized 3D printer that prints objects in wax. This permits the replication of exact morphologies of human physiology on a subject-specific basis. This capability will be used to investigate research questions such as: investigating hemodynamics in the aortic arch and the response to different valve replacement strategies; targeting injection of therapeutics into brain structures; and creating models of perfusion networks in brain tissue. The knowledge gained from having access to this equipment will bring important health care benefits to Veterans. Specifically, knowledge gained will provide improved device design for veterans who are in need of valve replacement treatments. Similarly, Veterans who might be candidates for direct injection of therapeutics into specific target regions in the brain will benefit from methods developed with the tools created in this project that optimize injection strategies. Finally, improved information on brain vascular networks will provide insights into brain perfusion in Veterans who suffer a stroke, and help in devising strategies to improve function in that setting.
