| Start Date: | 11/18/2016 | Start Time: | 10:00 AM |
| End Date: | 11/18/2016 | End Time: | 11:30 AM |
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Event Description
BIOMED Seminar
Title:
Temporomadibular Joint (TMJ) Biomechanics and Tissue Engineering
Speaker:
Alejandro J. Almarza, PhD
Associate Professor of Oral Biology and Bioengineering
McGowan Institute of Regenerative Medicine
University of Pittsburgh
Abstract:
Biomechanics of the Temporomadibular Joint: The etiology of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders (TMDs) is multifactorial and complex. It is generally believed that TMDs can be attributed to two main mechanisms, factors/stressors that reduce or exceed the adaptive capacity of the joint. In this context, gonadal hormones, in particular estrogens are thought to reduce the adaptive capacity of the joint and consequently account for the sex difference in the manifestation of TMD. Conversely, insidious events such as clenching and bruxism, or sudden malocclusion from teeth removal or mandibular fracture (caused by trauma), are factors that are thought to exceed the adaptive capacity of the joint. Our model of altered loading results in distinct condylar cartilage remodeling (stiffening and loss of the subchondral layer), and therefore reflects variety of conditions that exceed the adaptive capacity of the joint.
Tissue Engineering Approaches for the Temporomadibular Joint: The goal of this research is to utilize novel tissue engineering techniques, such as extracellular matrix (ECM) scaffolds, for regeneration of the TMJ disc. In collaboration with Drs. Badylak, Chung and Brown, we are currently testing the in vivo regeneration potential of TMJ disc scaffolds derived from porcine small intestine submucosa (SIS) in a porcine model. The results of studies during the past 4 years indicate that this inductive template can stimulate the endogenous formation of a fibrocartilaginous disc that closely mimics the composition, structure, and mechanical properties of native disc material.
For more info, please visit drexel.edu/biomed.
Biosketch:
Dr. Alejandro Almarza is an Associate Professor in Oral Biology in the School of Dental Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh with a secondary appointment in the Department of Bioengineering and the McGowan Institute of Regenerative Medicine, and the Director of the TMJ laboratories. Dr. Almarza is also the Director of Undergraduate Internship Programs in the Department of Bioengineering as well as the Faculty Advisor of the Student Research Group in the School of Dental Medicine.
Dr. Almarza graduated with a PhD in Bioengineering from Rice University after obtaining a BS in Chemical Engineering from Florida State University. He joined the faculty at the University of Pittsburgh in 2005.
His research interests lie in the areas of theoretical and experimental bioengineering with a focus on: (1) Novel tissue engineering techniques, such as extracellular matrix scaffolds and progenitor cells, for fibrocartilage tissue engineering applications; (2) Quantification of the normal biomechanical properties and joint mechanics/motion of the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) for determining diseased states.
Dr. Almarza has authored both refereed journal publications and several book chapters. He is a member of the Biomedical Engineering Society, the Orthopaedic Research Society, the International Association of Dental Research, the American Association of Dental Research, the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, and the American Society of TMJ Surgeons (invited). He is the Academic Editor of PLoS One and a reviewer for Tissue Engineering, Archives of Oral Biology, Journal of Biomechanics, Osteoarthritis and Cartilage, Orthopaedic Research, amongst others. |
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Location:
Bossone Research Center, Room 709, located at 32nd and Market Streets. |
Audience:
Undergraduate StudentsGraduate StudentsFacultyStaff |
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