Everyday Tools for Biomaterials for Protein Release

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The Radisic, Santerre, Sefton and Shoichet groups have come together to address critical issues in biomaterials design and protein release. Together, we propose to design, synthesize and characterize innovative materials for their rheological properties – gelation time, modulus, viscous properties – all of which are critical to their use in advanced research and translation to practical application. Moreover, in order to influence cell fate, these materials often incorporate proteins into their design. By controlling the release of proteins with innovative affinity strategies, we can further influence cell growth and differentiation. This proposal sits at the interface of engineering, chemistry and biology. ******We propose to purchase two critical, inter-related instruments required for cutting edge research: an FPLC for protein purification and characterization; and a rheometer for material characterization. These instruments are critical to the advanced research of our 65+ HQP and our national and international collaborators. Moreover, the instruments will be available to the 400+ HQP in the Donnelly Centre where they will be housed. ******We are internationally renowned for advanced research in biomaterials design, protein and cell delivery. The Radisic lab investigates UV-crosslinked polymers for organ-on-a chip applications; the Santerre lab synthesizes polymers to influence the immune system; the Sefton lab designs polymers to promote new blood vessels; the Shoichet lab invents hydrogels for in situ gelation and protein affinity release. Our four laboratories are intimately linked through the Institute of Biomaterials & Biomedical Engineering – a leader in interdisciplinary research – and have links to the research institutes across the U of T ecosystem, Canada and the world. ******The DHR-2 rheometer is critical to analysis of our innovative polymers where mechanical properties, such as gelation, viscosity, shear storage and loss moduli, are essential to their design, reproducibility and ultimate utility. TA instruments is a leading manufacturer of rheometers and the DHR-2 is superb because it uses magnetic bearings, which reduce friction.******The FPLC is a key instrument in all protein synthesis, modification and release laboratories, providing well-characterized and pure proteins. The Bio-Rad NGC Quest 10 FPLC is particularly compelling because it has a Peltier-controlled cooling kit that ensures that collected proteins remain bioactive during collection and subsequent storage.******These instruments are critical to the advancement of knowledge in recognized areas of strength for Canada and the innovation economy. Undergraduates, graduate students, and post-doctoral fellows will be trained on this cutting-edge equipment, preparing them for advanced research careers in industry, academia and government, ultimately benefitting Canada, as already reflected with 6+ current spin-off companies from the laboratories of the PIs in this proposal.**