Biomaterials for Tissue Engineering and Life Sciences

We have developed a composite hydrogel from hyaluronic acid (HA) and alginate (Alg) — biopolymers sourced from bacteria and seaweed — without using chemical crosslinkers. This animal-free formulation forms a stable network capable of encapsulating bioactive molecules. Its shear-thinning behavior makes it ideal as a bioink for 3D bioprinting, enabling precise fabrication of tissue structures.

Our porous scaffolds, made from poly(vinyl alcohol) and carboxymethyl cellulose, blend the tunability of synthetic polymers with the biocompatibility of natural ones. These scaffolds are optimized for chondrocyte culture, with controllable pore size and mechanical properties, offering a supportive microenvironment for cartilage tissue formation.

To better replicate the natural tissue environment, we create hydrogels derived from decellularized extracellular matrices. These dECM hydrogels preserve native biochemical signals that guide cell behavior, making them powerful platforms for regenerating complex tissues with physiological relevance.

In collaboration with Chulalongkorn Hospital, we have established a GMP-compliant workflow to harvest and expand a patient’s own cartilage cells. These autologous cells are cultured into cartilage grafts and re-implanted into defect sites, offering a personalized regenerative solution for cartilage repair.

We engineer biphasic grafts that combine cartilage-like tissue with bone-mimicking materials to restore osteochondral defects. This layered structure enhances integration and accelerates healing. Our current focus is on developing bioadhesives to strengthen the cartilage–bone interface. Applications include knee and ear cartilage reconstruction.

One of our most ambitious goals is to regenerate a patient’s airway using a decellularized donor trachea repopulated with the patient’s own cells. This state-of-the-art project integrates cell biology, scaffold engineering, and surgical translation — aiming to offer life-changing therapies for patients with severe tracheal defects.