Sarah Grace Dennis

PhD bioengineering student in the MUSC-Clemson bridge program. My research focuses on the integration of additive manufacturing technology with tissue engineering to develop functional replacements to maintain, restore, or enhance native tissues. The Palmetto Printer is a custom-built, multi-dispenser 3D bioprinter capable of depositing cell-laden materials in complex geometries. I have investigated the Palmetto Printers capability of generating geometrically accurate complex designs containing up to 98% viable cells 8 days post-fabrication. However, few materials are available that provide a supportive scaffold, as well as the essential biological and chemical factors/signals for cell function and tissue regeneration. I have developed a novel composite material in an attempt to provide a suitable environment and cues to the embedded cells, which showed improved cell viability and functionality compared to other widely used materials. I have also explored the use of scaffold-free tissue engineering approach for the generation of tissue engineered prevascularized stroma. These prevascularized constructs can serve as model systems of tissues and tumors. For example, when satellite cells were incorporated in these constructs prevascularized, mature muscle tissue was developed. Finally, my research has involved participation in the production of a wound-healing device, the Smart Wound Dressing (SWOD). The SWOD is a multicomponent wound dressing composed of prevascularized stroma and other natural materials, which will accelerate the healing process of chronic wounds by closing them more rapidly and with less morbidity than the current standard of care.