1530 Medical Sciences Center
1300 University Avenue
University of Wisconsin
Madison WI, 53706
New magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) methods are developed to visualize the structure and function of the brain and to translate these methods to the hospital for clinical diagnosis. One of the areas is functional MRI (fMRI). FMRI can help visualize both the temporal and spatial patterns of brain activity in response to different stimuli. Another area is diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), which is used to visualize fiber tracks in the brain. Of particular interest is the development of new analysis methods to improve our understanding of brain function.
For further information contact:
Professor M. Elizabeth Meyerand
Binaural Physiology Laboratory
290 Medical Sciences Center
University of Wisconsin
Madison WI, 53706
The laboratory is interested in the neuronal mechanisms underlying binaural hearing, with particular emphasis on sound localization. Presently, the laboratory has two major directions of research: one which is aimed at understanding the neural circuitry for encoding the acoustic cues used in localization and the other which uses behavioral methods to study localization in awake, behaving animals.
For further information contact:
Professor Tom C. T. Yin
Professor Susan Hagness (center) is working with Associate Professor Frederick Kelcz (right) to develop a low-cost, computer-based microwave tumor-detection system that could improve early detection and eliminate the trauma of unncessary biopsies. 
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3415 Engineering Hall
1415 Engineering Drive
Madison WI, 53706
Research activities are motivated by the goal of developing innovative microwave imaging and sensing techniques for diagnostic or therapeutic applications. Current interests are focused on the development of a novel ultra-wideband space-time microwave imaging approach for detecting and imaging near-surface biological tissue structures such as early-stage breast tumors. Dielectric spectroscopy measurements of excised breast tissue specimens are being conducted to understand the biophysical mechanisms responsible for the observed dielectric properties of normal, benign, and malignant breast tissue.
For further information contact:
Professor Susan Hagness
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Professor John Kao's bandage (which can be cut into various sizes, as shown in the accompanying photo), initially is a liquid, but solidifies and contains molecules and cells that repair damaged tissues inside the body and out. 
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Biomaterials/Tissue Engineering Laboratory
7123 Rennebohm Hall
777 Highland Avenue
University of Wisconsin
Madison WI, 53706
Research focuses on the role of biomaterials in the management of various pathological conditions. The program is highly interdisciplinary with an emphasis at the biology and engineering/chemistry interface. Overall, the laboratory (1) elucidates mechanisms involved in cell adhesion and activation on biomaterials, (2) delineates critical factors in material biocompatibility and biodegradation, and (3) develops enabling technologies in the synthesis of novel multifunctional materials for drug delivery and cellular/tissue engineering.
For further information contact:Professor W. John Kao
3631 Engineering Hall
1415 University Avenue
University of Wisconsin
Madison WI, 53706
Non-invasive delivery of small molecule pharmaceuticals and biopharmaceuticals (protein pharmaceuticals) to the brain is hindered by the presence of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). This impermeable barrier, comprised of endothelial cells, separates the bloodstream from the interstices of the brain. Unless a molecule satisfies the dual criteria of having a small molecular size of less than 600 daltons and a high degree of lipid solubility, it will not cross the BBB. Because of these constraints, greater than 98% of small molecule pharmaceuticals do not cross the BBB and no biopharmaceuticals can cross this barrier. We are focused on overcoming this barrier through the development of non-invasive delivery methods that target drugs to the brain for the treatment of neurological diseases.
For further information contact:
Professor Eric Shusta
Cell-Material Interactions Laboratory
4002 Engineering Centers Building
1550 Engineering Drive
University of Wisconsin
Madison WI, 53706
By combining engineering and biological principles, this research group investigates the nature of cellular and tissue interactions with biomaterials in order to rationally engineer "smarter," bioactive materials that are capable of directing cell function. The projects in this lab entail research in a wide variety of fields, including materials design, drug delivery, and cellular/molecular characterization with the end goal of creating unique biomaterial systems with clinical applicability. This research encourages a design-based approach to enhancing the quality and performance of biomaterials for a variety of applications, with an emphasis in the area of cardiovascular tissue engineering.
For further information contact:
Professor Kristyn S. Masters
3637 Engineering Hall
1415 University Avenue
University of Wisconsin
Madison WI, 53706-1691
This group dissects the chemical signaling pathways and characterizes how quantitative changes in the flow of signals can control a wide variety of cellular processes. With this information strategies are designed to stimulate or inhibit force generation either at the chemical or physical level, and thereby regulate cell functions. Research questions include: How do cells transform chemical signals into mechanical forces? How do gene expression profiles change in response to environmental cues?
For further information contact:
Professor Sean P. Palecek
A new research team at the College of Engineering called Center for Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology (CREATe) looks for ways to assist people with disabilities to regain independence, control and productivity. The team includes Professor Terry Richard, Professor Jay Martin, Assistant Professor Nicola Ferrier and Professor Frank Fronczak. 
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Center for Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology (CREATe)
306 Mechanical Engineering Building
1513 University Avenue
University of Wisconsin
Madison, WI 53706-1572
The center involves faculty, staff and students from mechanical, industrial, and biomedical engineering, and rehabilitation medicine, working together on projects in rehabilitation engineering and assistive technology. The goal is to improve the quality of life for children and adults with disabilities while regaining independence, control, and productivity through development of fundamental and applied engineering knowledge related to biomechanical systems through graduate student education and research. The application of engineering expertise toward the design and development of leading-edge rehabilitative, assistive and adaptive technologies allows those with disabilities to achieve greater independence. Research addresses societal needs, focusing on the increasing importance of disabilities among the public's health care concerns.
For further information contact:
Professor Jay Martin
Kinesiology Biomechanics Laboratory
1081 Natatorium
2000 Observatory Drive
University of Wisconsin
Madison, WI 53706
The mission of this laboratory is to understand how the nervous system controls muscle activity during locomotion. Human locomotory tasks are investigated using mechanically constrained tasks, such as pedaling a bicycle. These tasks provide means to investigate specific components of the control system. Studies involve healthy humans and those that have been affected by a stroke. This research promises to provide improved therapy for a variety of locomotion disorders.
For further information contact:
Professor Kreg Gruben
Laboratory for Optical and Computational Instrumentation
Room 271 Animal Sciences
675 Observatory Dr.
University of Wisconsin
Madison, WI 53706
LOCI is a biophotonics instrumentation laboratory stemming from the interdisciplinary research activities of Dr. John White and those of his collaborators. The mission of LOCI is to develop advanced optical and computational techniques for imaging and experimentally manipulating living specimens. New and improved imaging instrumentation and optical-based experimental techniques are being developed. These projects are driven by demands arising from the scientific studies of the LOCI investigators and opportunities that arise with the emergence of new technology. Instrumentation development is undertaken in a form that is both accessible and beneficial to the scientific community.
For further information contact:
Professor
John White
Professor Walter Block's role in the biomedical engineering department is to expand MR beyond its diagnostic uses to intervention purposes, like minimally invasive surgery. 
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Magnetic Resonance Imaging Research Group
B-3077 VA Hospital
2500 Overlook Terrace
University of Wisconsin
Madison, WI 53705
Methods are investigated to make magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) faster through undersampling using radial projection acquisitions techniques. Techniques are implemented that reduce data acquisition times 5 to 10 times relative to conventional MR methods. These techniques produce isotropic volumes with large field of views that simplify and shorten MR exams. The symmetric nature of the acquisition makes it ideally suited for time-resolved imaging, which is particularly useful in angiography. Technology and applications are also developed for real-time MRI. Conventional MRI has a strong presence in neurological and musculoskeletal imaging where tissue can be kept motion-free for extended durations. The aim is to extend MR into diagnostic and interventional applications where speed and interactivity are essential.
For further information contact:
Professor Walter Block
Professor Charles Mistretta
Mechanical Systems Design and Fluid Power Research Laboratory
Rooms 53 and 64 Mechanical Engineering Building
1513 University Avenue
University of Wisconsin
Madison, WI 53706
Particular emphasis is placed on developing rehabilitative and assistive technology. For example a novel, hand-powered cycle for use by paraplegics is being developed and tested. In addition, a unique hydraulic actuator appropriate for use in orthotic actuators and assistive robots is being investigated.
For further information contact:
Professor Frank Fronczak
The way to advance biological study is to develop improved tools, says Professor Daniel van der Weide. van der Weide hopes his tools will enable neuroscientists to monitor and understand "conversations" that occur in the brain. 
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Microfabricated Probe and Sensor Group
1423 Engineering Hall
1415 Engineering Drive
University of Wisconsin
Madison, WI 53706
This laboratory investigates cellular and subcellular activity (e.g. protein and DNA conformational changes) using electronic and optical techniques, fabricating probes and sensors with sub-micrometer features to promote these investigations. We are interested in label-free readout of biomolecular reactions, ultimately at the single-molecule level.
For further information contact:
Professor Daniel W. van der Weide
212 Engineering Research Building
1500 Engineering Drive
University of Wisconsin
Madison, WI 53705
The theme of research in this laboratory is the creation of materials with extreme and unusual physical properties, and characterization of their properties, especially viscoelastic and microelastic properties. We are interested in materials with heterogeneous structure, including both natural composites such as bone, ligament, and wood, as well as synthetic composites.
For further information contact:
Professor Rod Lakes
Lab on a chip, a palm-sized multilayered fluidic device fabricated by Prof. David Beebe and Research Scientist Glennys Mensing in the department of biomedical engineering. 
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Microtechnology, Medicine and Biology Laboratory
2046 Engineering Centers Building
1550 Engineering Drive
University of Wisconsin
Madison, WI 53706
Research is aimed at the intelligent development and use of micro and nano scale technologies and phenomena to solve problems in biology and medicine. Current areas of focus include the effect of microenvironments on living systems, the use of responsive materials to create autonomous systems, and the development of tactile interfaces for communication.
For further information contact:
Professor David Beebe
Molecular and Cellular Engineering Laboratory
Room 2002 Engineering Centers Building
1550 Engineering Drive
University of Wisconsin
Madison WI, 53706
We are interested in understanding how cells take in information, transmit it through their signaling network, and make decisions as a result. Understanding this process is crucial to treating diseases and improving our methods to regulate cell behaviors. To study these questions, we utilize a variety of experimental and computational techniques to analyze these multivariate problems. Of particular interest is how to use this information to understand cancer and other diseases, as well as how to more rationally design tissue engineering approaches.
For further information contact:
Professor Pamela Kreeger
Musculoskeletal Biomechanics Research Laboratory
3139 and 3141 Engineering Centers Building
1550 Engineering Drive
University of Wisconsin
Madison, WI 53706
The Musculoskeletal Biomechanics Research Laboratory conducts research in computational biomechanics, mechanical testing of orthopedic devices and human movement analysis. Application areas include orthopedics, total joint replacement, sports medicine and rehabilitation.
For further information contact:
Professor Heidi-Lynn Ploeg
Professor Darryl Thelen
Neural Interface Technology, Research, and Optimization Laboratory
2025 Engineering Centers Building
1550 University Avenue
University of Wisconsin
Madison WI, 53706
For further information contact:
Professor Justin Williams
Occupational Ergonomics and Biomechanics Laboratory
2021 Engineering Centers Building
1550 Engineering Drive
University of Wisconsin
Madison, WI 53706
This laboratory pursues research on measurement, quantification and understanding of human physiological and biomechanical capacities to do productive, sustained, and healthful work. The goal is to understand how to design environments, jobs, equipment and products where people play a significant role, so that human capabilities are maximized, physical stress is minimized, and workload is optimized. This includes investigating the causes and prevention of musculoskeletal disorders; developing novel instruments for assessing exposure to physical stress in the workplace; studying ergonomics aspects of the design, selection, installation and use of manually operated equipment; and quantifying functional deficits associated with musculoskeletal disorders and peripheral neuropathies for rehabilitation and prevention.
For further information contact:
Professor Robert Radwin
Professor Doug Henderson (left) and Bruce Thomadsen, shown with ultrasound images of the prostate, have developed a method that could help doctors plan treatments for people with prostate cancer in just a few seconds, rather than many minutes. 
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Radiation Therapy Physics and Radiation Dosimetry Group
B576 Medical Sciences Center
1300 University Avenue
University of Wisconsin
Madison, WI 53706
Brachytherapy physics and patient safety is the focus of this laboratory. This includes investigation of methods of quantization of radiation dose in tissue; evaluation of dose distributions in tissue, particularly in brachytherapy, and in conformal treatment utilizing multi-modality imaging, measurement of radiation from various sources; and development and application of safety practices in radiation therapy.
For further information contact:
Professor Bruce Thomadsen
Professor John G. Webster shows the location of a radio frequency cardiac ablation electrode to biomedical engineering graduate students (left to right) Chanchana Tangwongsan, Hong Cao, and Glenn Walker. 
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Radio Frequency Ablation Research Group
2027 Engineering Centers Building
1550 Engineering Drive
University of Wisconsin
Madison, WI 53706
Finite element method (FEM) computer models and tests are performed on swine to improve RF ablation, microwave ablation, and cryoablation to cure hepatic cancer. Complex FEM models are developed and experimental tests are done to optimize the design of ablation probes capable of producing large lesions. This research includes creation of maps of electrical and thermal properties of the liver, for the range of voltages, current densities and temperatures applicable to RF ablation. These data are used to create realistic and complex FEM models for electrical-thermal FEM analyses. Computer simulations find the optimal probe design. The simulations determine: (a) optimal probe geometry; (b) optimal placement of inner temperature sensors for the purpose of efficient temperature-controlled ablation; (c) optimal power application and ablation procedure duration. These findings clarify the electrical-thermal response of the probe-tissue system during ablation. Experimental tests on swine validate temperature and electric field distributions predicted by the computer FEM models. Swine tests are performed in the Departments of Surgery and Animal Health and Biomedical Sciences.
For further information contact:
Professor John G. Webster
Robotics and Intelligent Systems Lab
319 Mechanical Engineering Building
1300 University Avenue
University of Wisconsin
Madison, WI 53706
The long term goal of this research is to understand what it means to pay attention to a sensor. How does a complex entity, such as a robot, determine which sensors to utilize and when to utilize them? Conventional models are inadequate to handle large numbers of sensors and/or actuators. Towards achieving this goal, current work concentrates primarily on visual and tactile sensing, developing models for visual control of motion and grasping. Projects include: 3D Point Extraction in a Robotcentric Coordinate System ; Inferring Suture Pulling Forces on Endoscopic Surgical Tools; Learning Dynamics to Facilitate Tracking Networked Control Systems; Orthodic Hand Device for the Disabled; Structure Computation using Parallax; Tactile Sensing of Computer Graphics for the Visually Impaired; Visual Servo Control; Distributed Motion Control; Learning Dynamics to Facilitate Tracking; Sensor Feedback from a Robotic Manipulator for Quadriplegics; and Visual Tracking without Continuous Observations.
For further information contact:
Professor Nicola Ferrier
Smart, Bioinspired Materials Laboratory
4004 Engineering Centers Building
1550 Engineering Drive
University of Wisconsin
Madison WI, 53706
Tissue development involves an intricate organization of extracellular matrix signals and bioactive soluble signals, resulting in spatially and temporally modulated cell activity. We are interested in developing "smart" biomaterials that mimic the complex signaling environments of natural tissue development. Particular emphasis is placed on temporal and spatial control over growth factor activity, gene transfer, and mechanical stimulation. The "smart" biomaterials developed in our lab are then used to understand and control stem cell differentiation, ultimately geared towards directed regeneration of a variety of human tissues. The group is highly interdisciplinary, with research areas ranging from novel materials design approaches to basic stem cell biology.
For further information contact:
Professor William Murphy
206/210 Engineering Research Building
1500 Engineering Drive
University of Wisconsin
Madison, WI 53706
Research is conducted on engineered materials used in biomedical applications such as stents, catheters, microfluidic devices, and tissue engineering. One class of materials being researched is shape memory materials, which includes materials like responsive hydrogels and shape memory alloys. Characterization studies are being conducted on hydrogels used in microscale devices as sensor actuators in collaboration with Prof. Beebe and drug delivery and tissue engineering in collaboration with Prof. Kao. Other projects involve characterization and materials development of Nickel-Titanium shape memory alloys, a material being applied in an increasing number of implantable medical devices. Recently, it has been used in endovascular stents to provide a self-expanding mechanical superstructure that is collapsed into a catheter and maneuvered into the site of implantation.
For further information contact:
Professor Wendy Crone
Professor Regina M. Murphy has discovered a possible way to inhibit the formation of plaques in the brain, a primary characteristic of Alzheimer's disease. 
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Targeted Drug Design and Protein-Protein Interactions Group
3635 Engineering Hall
1415 Engineering Drive
University of Wisconsin
Madison, WI 53706
Protein-protein and protein-cell interactions regulate physiological systems. This research group is interested in the following: 1) investigating protein-protein and protein-cell interactions using physicochemical and biological experimental techniques, 2) developing quantitative models to describe them, and 3) using this knowledge to develop new, effective therapies. The current primary interest is in aggregation of a class of proteins known as amyloidogenic proteins. Aggregation of beta-amyloid peptide into fibrils has been implicated in the onset of the neuropathology associated with Alzheimer's disease. Targeted drug technology is the other primary focus of this group. The lab is specifically interested in improving the efficacy of immunotoxins and related molecules for cell-specific killing. In one project, the kinetic pathways for cellular processing of antibody-toxin conjugates is studied. This work has led to the identification of key rate-limiting steps in delivery of immunotoxins to the ribosomes. The group is developing strategies for chemical modification of the immunotoxins to reroute them intracellularly, in order to enhance their toxicity.
For further information contact:
Professor Regina Murphy
A cancer treatment that precisely maps affected tissue, yet protects the cells around it by delivering hundreds of beams of radiation in an exact dose, may be at work in American hospitals by 2002. Called tomotherapy, it is the result of a collaboration between Professor Thomas ‘Rock’ Mackie (right) and UW-Madison oncologist Minesh Mehta (left). 
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1582 Medical Sciences Center
1300 University Avenue
University of Wisconsin
Madison, WI 53706
Tomotherapy is rotational radiotherapy delivery using an intensity-modulated fan beam. Intensity-modulated delivery is achieved by moving multiple collimator vanes into and out of the fan beam. The length of time that a leaf spends out of the beam is proportional to the intensity of radiation allowed through that particular portion of the beam. With sponsorship by General Electric Medical Systems, a helical tomotherapy system is developed capable of being used clinically. The ring gantry is a modified Hi Speed gantry designed for the GE Hi Speed Advantage Helical CT scanner. A 64-element multi-segmented xenon ion chamber is placed after the MLC and before the patient to monitor the modulated beam, while a 736-element xenon CT detection system is placed behind the patient to intercept the exiting beam. A common data acquisition system monitors both the pre- and the post-patient detectors.
For further information contact:
Professor Rock Mackie
Professor Gregg C. Vanderheiden watches instrumentation specialist Neal Ewers demonstrate software developed by the Trace Research and Development Center. 
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Trace Research and Development Center
2107 Engineering Centers Building
1550 Engineering Drive
University of Wisconsin
Madison, WI 53706-1609
The Trace Center is an interdisciplinary research center focused on advancing the ability of elders and people with disabilities to live independently and productively using technology. This includes research into better interface techniques, working with mainstream industry to develop products with more flexible interfaces that can accommodate a wider range of users, the development of special assistive technologies, establishing standards for accessibility and identifying and addressing accessibility issues in next generation technologies. Research from the center has been incorporated into the design of computers, operating systems, kiosks, ATMs, voting machines, the World Wide Web, augmentative communication aids (for those who cannot speak or write), computer access interfaces, and building entry and security systems. Current research efforts are focused on design of more accessible computer and telecommunication systems, development of abstract, pluggable interfaces, and creating standard universal remote console technologies to extend the use of augmentative aids to allow elders and others with disabilities, including cognitive disabilities, to be able to live and function in the community independently.
For further information contact:
Professor Gregg Vanderheiden
Ultrasound/Elastography Laboratory
1530 Medical Sciences Center
1300 University Avenue
University of Wisconsin
Madison, WI 53706
New signal and image processing applications in ultrasonic medical imaging for the early detection of cancer are being developed. The ultimate goal is to provide fast, reliable and well-understood signal processing techniques for the early detection of malignant tissue using ultrasound. Elastography has been used for imaging and characterizing tumors in breast, prostate, kidney, liver, muscle and other applications such as the monitoring of minimally invasive ablative therapies, detection and characterization of vulnerable plaque in the carotid and coronary arteries and for assessment of regional myocardial function in the heart.
For further information contact:
Professor Tomy Varghese
UW Neuromuscular Biomechanics Laboratory
1550 Engineering Drive
University of Wisconsin
Madison WI, 53706
The laboratory conducts research on the biomechanics, neuromuscular coordination and rehabilitation of human locomotion. We employ coupled experimental and computational tools to address both basic science and clinical questions. Our experimental facilities include capabilities to record three dimensional kinematics, kinetics and electromyography during dynamic movements such as walking, stair climbing, and running. Computer simulations of neuromusculoskeletal function are used to characterize musculotendon mechanics, estimate internal loadings and test principles guiding movement control. The overall goal of the research is to establish a scientific basis for the clinical treatment and prevention of impairments that limit locomotor performance.
For further information contact:
Professor Darryl Thelen
Professor Thomas Best
Vascular Tissue Biomechanics Laboratory
2044 Engineering Centers Building
1550 Engineering Drive
University of Wisconsin
Madison, WI 53706
The mission of this laboratory is to quantify vascular mechanobiology and biomechanics during physiological and pathological remodeling in both the systemic and pulmonary circulations. In particular, research investigates the effects of mechanical forces (pressure and shear stress) on synthesis and degradation of extracellular matrix proteins by endothelial and smooth muscle cells, the non-linear elasticity and distribution of solid wall stresses in normal and remodeled arteries, the correlations between these load-carrying sites in the vasculature and the synthesis and degradation of extracellular matrix proteins, and the effects of mechanical forces (pressure and shear stress) on tissue permeability as may be relevant to atherosclerosis and/or gene therapy delivery to human saphenous veins. The laboratory goals are to combine experiments on living arteries and veins with biological assays, predictive theoretical modeling, and computational methods as necessary to understand vascular physiology, pathology, and rationally design new treatment modalities for vascular disease.
For further information contact:
Professor Naomi Chesler
How does genetic information turn a fertilized egg into a multicellular organism? That's a question Associate Professor of Chemical and Biological Engineering and Cargill Faculty Fellow John Yin is trying to answer. As a starting point, he is studying how genetic information in viruses, among the world's simplest organisms, helps them grow. 
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3633 Engineering Hall
1415 Engineering Drive
University of Wisconsin
Madison, WI 53706
This laboratory develops research tools - both experimental and theoretical - aiming to advance an integrated understanding of biological systems that ultimately benefits humankind. We use methods of chemical engineering, molecular and cell biology, and systems science to study how viruses grow and evolve. Viruses are useful as model genomic systems because their intracellular developmental processes are relatively simple, their molecular functions have been well characterized, and they can be readily cultured in the laboratory. Moreover, viruses are important because they can cause a variety of diseases such as AIDS, cancer and the common cold. Computer simulations that link molecular- and cellular-level processes to higher-level traits of living organisms will yield significant advances as biology develops into a quantitative and predictive science.
For further information contact:
Professor John Yin
Professor Ray Vanderby, Jr. demonstrates equipment for simulating spinal flexion, compression and torsion. 
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Wisconsin Orthopedic Research Laboratories
Rooms G5/332 and G5/338 Clinical Science Center, Room G4 VA Hospital
University of Wisconsin
Madison, WI 53706
These laboratories support the basic science activities of faculty, residents, and fellows in the Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation. These (and other shared research resources with the Department of Surgery) provide the facilities, equipment, and technical expertise for the scientific evaluation of orthopedic tissues and structures. Bioscience activities are supported in cell biology, molecular biology and biochemistry. Biomechanical testing is performed, and there are active projects in tissue engineering. Some research projects include: effects of growth factors and neurogenic agents on soft tissue homeostasis and healing, viscoelastic behavior and damage of ligaments and tendons, damage and healing of skeletal muscle, instrumentation and surgical procedures for spinal surgery, and cell signaling pathways in normal and osteoarthric cartilage.
For further information contact:
Professor Ray Vanderby
