ECM Analogues
The extracellular matrix (ECM) forms a complex network of materials that provides structural support for cells while enabling intercellular communication. The control and reproduction of this environment is critical for the future of cell therapies and tissue engineering. At MERLN, we pursue two complementary approaches to harness ECM functionality: engineering synthetic bioactive hydrogels that mimic key ECM properties, and controlling or modifying natural ECM macromolecules via engineering approaches. These strategies allow us to precisely control cellular microenvironments, modulate the timing of bioactive signals, and systematically investigate which ECM features drive specific cellular behaviors.
While this represents a highly complex research challenge, our focus on designing simple, rationally engineered materials brings us significantly closer to understanding how the ECM orchestrates tissue regeneration. Our mission centers on developing well-characterized, reproducible materials that can replace the poorly defined mixtures currently limiting the clinical translation of regenerative therapies.
