In an era where more and more people are suffering from osteoarthritis, can cartilage tissue engineering play a role in finding solutions to this condition, which affects millions?
Biomedical engineering PhD student Rayehe Ghofrani has taken on this question with research on developing a new extracellular matrix (ECM)-based hydrogel to help repair damaged cartilage. New biomaterials to support the regeneration of joint tissues could improve treatment for osteoarthritis.
We spoke with Rayehe to learn more about her research and career goals.
What motivated you to pursue research in your field?
I am deeply motivated by the potential to advance cartilage tissue engineering, offering hope for millions. What inspired me to explore solutions in this area was the limitations of current treatments.
Can you tell us more about your research?
My work focuses on improving current processes to remove the cells from cartilage tissue so that we can use the remaining extracellular matrix, which is the non-cellular component of tissues, for the fabrication of novel biomaterials to guide the regeneration of our joint tissues. The reason we want to remove the cells is that these are the structures that can lead our body to reject the biomaterial.
This research is promising because it aims to address a critical medical need. Improved cartilage tissue engineering techniques could alleviate the suffering of millions of Canadians with osteoarthritis by enhancing their mobility, reducing pain and potentially avoiding or delaying the need for invasive surgeries.
What are your career goals?
I hope to continue contributing to the field of regenerative medicine by developing therapies that directly impact patients' lives. After finishing my PhD, I aim to pursue a career where I can bridge the gap between scientific discoveries and clinical application, leading to meaningful advancements in health care.
Emerging materials and processes: Design and development
Rayehe Ghofrani's research secured her first place in the emerging materials and processes: design and development category at the 2024 Engineering and Computer Science Graduate Poster Competition held by the Faculty of Engineering.
Her research, supervised by Professor Jean-Philippe St-Pierre, aims to advance cartilage tissue engineering to revolutionize treatment options for osteoarthritis, leading to improved mobility and reduced pain for patients.
The Faculty of Engineering conducts research in five areas of focus, including emerging materials and processes: design and development.
This article is part of our series highlighting winners of the 2024 Engineering and Computer Science Graduate Poster Competition.
