Home Department: Undeclared
Mentor: Michael Longaker (Surgery)

"Modulating DLK1 Profibrotic Scar-Depositing Fibroblasts in vitro Using a 3D Hydrogel Culture System"

The Longaker Lab has data suggesting that mechanically sensitive profibrotic DLK1+ adipocyte-derived fibroblasts are critical long-term scar deposition. Macy will apply a 3D hydrogel culture system to modulate mechanical strain on cells. In this culture experiment, human primary adipocytes transition to fibroblasts following stretch. Macy will explore whether a DLK1 inhibitor alone is sufficient to condition stretched adipocyte-derived-fibroblasts towards a pro-regenerative state. Combining tissue engineering and cellular biology, this interdisciplinary work is significant as results will help us identify a target to reduce the clinical burden of scars.