Estelle Palierse

Project 1: 3D bioprinting of decellularized extracellular matrix-based hydrogels for tissue engineering

The extracellular matrix (ECM) provides biochemical and structural support to the surrounding cells in living tissues. Comprising proteins and polysaccharides arranged in an intricate porous network, ECM incorporates cells, enzymes and growth factors. Recreating its complexity in vitro, in terms of composition, structure, and mechanical properties, is a challenging task, but of great interest for applications in tissue engineering or advanced in vitro tissue modelling. In my research, I am interested in using 3D biopriting to fabricate 3D constructs with a hierarchical architecture similar to the native tissue. For that, I am formulating bioinks that are able to give the biochemical and biophysical cues for cells adhesion and proliferation. In particular, my project involved the use of decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM), obtained from the decellularization of native tissue. dECM gels preserve the composition of ECM, and thereby contain protein domain essential stimulation. I am working on tuning the properties of the gel to study the effect of mechanical cues such as viscoelasticity and topography on the cellular response.

Project 2: Development of bioadhesives using decellularized extracellular matrix hydrogels

Traditional methods to close wounds or seal fluid leaks includes mechanical sutures or staples. They are not satisfying as they are associated with poor sealing, higher infection rates, extensive handling and tissue reactivity. On the contrary, polymeric tissue adhesives are easy to use with rapid application, and introduce minimal damage. However, their applications are still limited due to weak adhesion and poor mechanical properties. In this project, I am aiming at using dECM gels in association to diverse additives to develop soft tissue adhesives.