Engineering Cellular Microenvironments

Engineering Cellular Microenvironments
Biophysical and Biochemical Signal Cues in Regulation of Cell Fate Decision
Background & Research
Interactions
between
cells
and
their
extracellular
microenvironment influence multiple aspects of cellular functions
and fate decision in physiological and pathological processes.
Traditional cell culture in two dimensions (2D) frequently lacks
the properties of the three dimensions (3D) occurring in many
cellular tissues. The in vitro reconstitution of well-defined cellular
microenvironments using artificial or natural materials is a
promising tool to apply high-resolution analytical techniques
including long-term single cell tracking. Advantageously,
engineered matrices need to be 3D with a defined
composition, stiffness, and microarchitecture, as these
parameters are known to significantly influence cell behavior.
We aim to engineer 3D physiologically and pathologically
relevant biomimetic microenvironments from collagen and fibrin
with defined properties in topology, fibril morphology,
mechanics and functionality. Varying protein concentration as
well as fibrillation conditions or functionalization with other
matrix proteins of the ECM, like fibronectin, laminin and
glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), allows a defined adjustment of
functional properties of the in vitro matrices. The biomimetic 3D
matrices use for in vitro studies regarding cell migration,
proliferation or differentiation of various cell types including
fibroblast, macrophages, hematopoietic stem cells and
melanoma cells.
Requirements
► Experience in cell culture, immunostaining and microscopy
► Willing to work within a highly interdisciplinary team of biochemists and biophysicists
Leipzig
Leipzig is one of the liveliest and most dynamic cities in Germany.
Whether as a musical city, trade fair mecca or city of books –
Leipzig has been an important European center for hundreds
of years. As a comprehensive university, the Universität Leipzig
covers the entire spectrum from natural sciences, law and medicine
to a wide range of study programmes in humanities and social
sciences. Currently, close to 29,000 students are enrolled at the
Universität Leipzig.
energiemetropole-leipzig.de
For further information
Jiranuwat Sapudom
eMail: jiranuwat.sapudom@uni-leipzig.de
Website:http://www.biochemie.uni-leipzig.de/agpompe/home.php