Project Mentor
Dr. Tannin Schmidt
Biomedical Engineering
Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description
| Project Description | Biomechanical characterization of cartilage tissue in synovial joints & the role lubricin/PRG4 plays in joint homestasis.
Lubricin is a lubricating molecule originally discovered in the knee joint that is necessary for joint health. Intra-articular injections of recombinant human lubricin, which is also being developed to treat dry eye disease, have been shown to be effective preventing/delaying osteoarthritis disease progression. This project will cartilage integrity in synovial joints, via mechanical indentation, and the role lubricin plays in synovial joint integrity using various models. Biochemical analysis will also be employed to examine tissue composition of lubricin. |
| Project Direction | This project will contribute to the development of recombinant human lubricin as a bio therapeutic treatment for osteoarthritis. Potential applications include various synovial joints, and thus has a broad potential clinical application. |
| Mentorship and Supervision | The student will work closely with a PhD student on a daily basis, and we will have weekly group meetings to go over progress. In addition my office door is always open and I will be available for daily meetings/discussion as needed to monitor progress. Feedback will be provided verbally on a weekly basis as the project progresses. |
| Student Qualifications | None specifically, though an interest/knowledge in biomedical engineering and biomechanics will be useful. |
| Summer Schedule Options | Research Dates: May 28 to August 2, 2019 Schedule: M-F, 9am-5pm or 9am-4pm (for students using shuttle service) |
| Project Continuation | Fall 2019, Spring 2020 |
| Academic Year Time Commitment | 9 hours/week |
| Possible Thesis Project | Yes |
Application
Submit an online application for this research opportunity at https://quest.uconn.edu/prog/HRP19-19/. The application deadline is Monday, February 4, 2019.
This application requires a cover letter, a resume or CV, an unofficial transcript, and a brief statement of research interests.