Research Laboratories

Adipose Stem Cell Center (ASCC)

Co-Directors: Dr. Peter Rubin and Dr. Lauren Kokai

Research Description

In 2002, founders J. Peter Rubin, MD, MBA, FACS and Kacey G. Marra, PhD formed the Tissue Engineering Research Laboratory, with a focus on soft tissue and nerve regeneration. To build upon the significant research successes and growth in both fields, a new Adipose Stem Cell Center was created in 2005 to expand the tissue engineering research laboratory to focus on efforts on Adipose Stem Cell Biology. Now co-directed by Dr. Rubin and Lauren Kokai, PhD, the ASCC focuses on research regarding the use of adipose-derived stem cells for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. In addition to stem cells, the ASCC conducts scientific investigation in multiple interdisciplinary areas, including development of novel biomaterials for soft tissue, skin and nerve regeneration, with a strong focus on polymeric materials, both native and synthetic.

For more information, please contact:

Dr. Lauren Kokai
Assistant Professor
kokail@upmc.edu

Nerve Regeneration Lab

Director: Dr. Kacey Marra

Research Description

Clinical Significance: There is a need for an off-the-shelf nerve guide to repair large peripheral nerve gaps, and restore distal muscle function, with over 200,000 patients per year requiring surgical intervention. Innovation: Dr. Marra and her amazing team developed a nerve guide composed of biodegradable, FDA-approved polymers, and bioactive factors that will stimulate axon growth. Our novel approach permits a slow, controlled delivery of relevant factors or cells that will guide axons to bridge a large nerve gap. Dr. Marra has patented this technology, and licensed the IP to her start-up company, Nerve Repair Technologies.

Translation: Our pre-clinical research focuses on sciatic nerve median nerve as well as the recently established facial nerve defect.  We are currently pursuing approval form the FDA for the first-in-human clinical trial with the nerve guide.

Emerging Research: Our lab has been examining different therapies to mitigate skeletal muscle atrophy after denervation. We have studied stem cells, decellularized extracellular matrices, nanofat, exercise and e-stimulation in preclinical rodent studies. We will identify the most promising therapies and move towards clinical translation.

For more information regarding research opportunities, please contact:

Dr. Kacey Marra
Professor and Vice Chair of Research
marrak@upmc.edu

Microvascular Reconstruction Research Lab

Director: Dr. Mario Solari

Research Description

Conventional surgical techniques such as skin grafting or free tissue transfer (microvascular transfer of a combination of skin, muscle, and bone based on an artery and vein) are used to reconstruct tissue damaged by trauma or infection/sepsis. Certain structures such as the nose, lips, ears, and the hand are very challenging to reconstruct with established techniques. Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation (VCA) can be a superior method of restoring the aesthetics and function of these complex structures in select patients. However, major hindrances for widespread application of VCA are the need for chronic immunosuppression for graft survival (which places the recipient at risk for infection, neoplasia, and metabolic dysfunction) and nerve regeneration for functional success. Our research faculty has diverse backgrounds and expertise that facilitate the execution of high-level multidisciplinary science in collaboration with leading institutional, national and international centers of research, academia and industry partners with the support of funding from federal (NIH, DOD), private, industry or intramural entities.

For more information, please contact:

Matt Bottegal
Research Coordinator
bottegalm@upmc.edu

Skin Wound Healing and Tissue Regeneration Lab

Director: Dr. Asim Ejaz

Research Description

Welcome to the Skin Wound Healing and Tissue Regeneration Laboratory, where we are dedicated to cutting-edge research in the fields of skin wound healing, adipose tissue aging and regeneration. Our mission is to unravel the intricacies of these processes, ultimately contributing to the development of innovative treatments and therapies that can improve the quality of life for individuals facing various skin-related issues and age-related adipose tissue challenges.

Research Areas:

1. Skin Wound Healing: We have a specialized focus on understanding the dynamics of skin wound healing. Skin is not just the body's largest organ; it is also a complex and dynamic structure. Our team of expert researchers is committed to investigating the mechanisms underlying wound repair, and tissue regeneration. With support from National Institute of Health, Department of Defense, Plastic Surgery Foundation and University of Pittsburgh, we work tirelessly to develop cutting-edge strategies that facilitate optimal skin healing, providing hope to those affected by wounds, burns, and skin disorders. Our particular focus is to study radiation and chemical induced skin injuries and develop countermeasures.

2. Adipose Tissue Aging and Regeneration: Aging can take a toll on our bodies, and one area significantly impacted is adipose tissue (fat). The Skin Wound Healing and Tissue Regeneration laboratory is at the forefront of researching age-related changes in adipose tissue and exploring innovative approaches for rejuvenation. Our studies delve into the molecular, cellular, and physiological aspects of adipose tissue aging. By understanding these processes, we aim to develop therapies that can restore youthful vitality and appearance.

Our Approach:

1. State-of-the-Art Research: The Skin Wound Healing and Tissue Regeneration laboratory prides itself on utilizing state-of-the-art technologies and methodologies. We employ advanced imaging techniques, molecular analyses, omics technology and novel research models to explore the biology of skin wound healing and adipose tissue regeneration comprehensively. The lab has recently established a novel full thickness human skin tissue perfusion model that will enable us to directly study the skin pathologies and develop mitigators in human skin tissue. In addition, this tool will be very valuable to study adipose tissue biology in human specimens in a natural tissue environment.

2. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: We strongly believe that groundbreaking discoveries emerge from interdisciplinary collaboration. Our collaborations comprise experts from various fields, including dermatology, radiation oncology, aging and regenerative medicine. This diverse blend of knowledge and expertise allows us to approach complex challenges from multiple angles.

3. Translational Research: Our ultimate goal is to translate our research findings into practical applications that benefit individuals. We actively collaborate with clinicians and industry partners to develop new therapies, medical devices, and cosmetic solutions. This translational approach ensures that our research reaches those who need it most.

Get Involved:

The Skin Wound Healing and Tissue Regeneration laboratory has a strong track record of contributions to the scientific community. Our research has been published in top-tier journals, and our findings have the potential to revolutionize the fields of wound healing and adipose tissue aging. Through our work, we aspire to improve healing, combat aging effects, advance medicine and enhance quality of life. We are always on the lookout for talented researchers, collaborators, and partners who share our passion for advancing skin wound healing and adipose tissue regeneration. If you're interested in contributing to our research, partnering on projects, or learning more about our work, please email Dr. Asim Ejaz, ejaza@upmc.edu.

Clinical Outcomes Lab

Director: Dr. Jesse Goldstein

Research Description

Dr. Goldstein is the Director of Clinical Research at the Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh for the Department of Plastic Surgery. This lab’s focus is on clinical outcomes and translational research involving patients with cleft lip/palate, craniosynostosis, facial trauma, and other craniofacial anomalies. In addition to over 60 clinical research projects ongoing, our lab has received grant funding from the Department of Defense, the National Institutes of Health, and the National Science Foundation. Our translational research focuses on studying how machine learning can assist in diagnoses and surgical decision making.

For more information, please contact:

Maya Andrews
Research Coordinator
andrewsmv@upmc.edu

Lymphatic Biology Lab

Director: Dr. Carolyn De La Cruz

Research Description

Lymphedema is a chronic and progressive disorder resulting from impaired lymphatic system function. In developed countries, upper extremity lymphedema is mainly the consequence of breast cancer surgery in which axillary lymph node dissection and radiation alter upper extremity lymphatic flow. 

For more information, please contact:

Karla Kichi
kichikl@upmc.edu

Burn, Microsurgery and Tissue Regeneration Lab

Director: Dr. Francesco Egro

Research Description

Dr. Egro’s research laboratory includes projects focused on microsurgery, burn surgery, wound healing, surgical education, and regenerative medicine.

For more information, please contact:

pittplasticsurgery@upmc.edu