Abstract
Tissue biomechanics are essential for the skin’s function as a physical barrier, but how these properties reflect the composition and structure of the extracellular matrix (ECM) remains poorly understood. The aim of this PhD studentship will be to develop a quantitative model for the relationship between ECM composition, ECM structure, and tissue mechanics within normal and scarred skin using advanced biomechanical methods, atomic force microscopy, confocal microscopy, and protein analysis. Additionally, engineered hydrogels will test their functional interactions in vitro. This project will provide new and fundamental insights into skin biomechanics and the pathogenesis of scar formation.
References
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