Our work in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine focuses on improving therapeutic outcomes through two main strategies: engineered scaffolds that support in vivo tissue repair and those that enhance the delivery and effectiveness of cell therapies. For regenerative applications, we develop specialised biomaterials, like nanostructured scaffolds and hydrogels, that provide structural and biochemical cues to promote healing and regeneration directly in the body. At the same time, we engineer biomaterials and scaffolds to improve the delivery, survival, and function of therapeutic cells, optimising the results of cell-based therapies. These complementary approaches enable us to tackle a wide range of therapeutic challenges. We have active projects in orthopaedics, cardiac, eye, liver and pancreas regeneration and repair. (Stevens Group, Ye Group, Nair Group)

This study used micro-CT imaging to assess bone growth within a large defect. Empty defects showed some bone growth around the edges but left a large central gap. Autografts produced dense, continuous bone, while uncoated scaffolds showed scattered bone formation that varied between animals. Scaffolds coated with Laponite and BMP-2 supported more consistent bone growth along their surfaces, clearly outlining the scaffold’s structure and pores. Figure from https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bioadv.2024.213959.