9733007 Moghe The research program of this career award is to develop a technology to quantitatively evaluate matrix microstructure and the corresponding cellular activities within biodegradable tissue analog matrices. Specific aims are to: (1) develop a novel imaging methodology to quantitatively investigate topological and bulk microstructure of 3-D biodegradable porous tissue analogs under physiological conditions; (2) design novel microstructural configurations of polymeric matrices that promote the phenotype and functions of cultured liver cells; and (3) examine the effect of polymer degradation on the topological and bulk matrix microstructure and the local physico-chemical conditions to the physiology of liver cells. For the teaching component of this award, the specific aims are to: (1) develop an innovative university-wide curriculum in Tissue Engineering which reflects a focus on biomaterials engineering; (2) establish a new course for students from regional high schools with the goal of offering to selected students a broad study of bioengineering as a field combining life sciences with the physical sciences and mathematics; and (3) extend outreach to other universities and high schools by distance instruction through an internet- based network. ***
