|
|
Nathalie K. Guimard
Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry
CPE 4.442A, MC C0400 (see
map)
The University of Texas at Austin
Austin, Texas 78712
(512) 471-5827 (phone)
nguimard@mail.utexas.edu |
Years with Schmidt Research Group:
2003 - present
Education:
BA, Chemistry, Princeton University
(2001)
Research:
Biomimetic Synthetic Polymers –
At
this juncture one of the most common medical procedures used to repair a severed
peripheral nerve involves the use of an autologous nerve graft. This procedure,
however, results in reduced nerve function at the donor site and incomplete
nerve regeneration at the injury site. The focus of Nathalie’s research is to
develop a biomaterial that can be used to simulate the body’s natural wound
healing response and enhance nerve regeneration in order to avoid the need for
autografts. Past research has indicated that electrical stimulation enhances
neurite outgrowth. Therefore, our goal is to synthesize a biocompatible,
biodegradable polymer that is electrically conductive. In order to render the
biomaterial electroconductive quarterthiophene units will be incorporated into
the backbone of the polymer. These quarterthiophene oligomers will be linked by
ester groups, which will permit the biodegradation of our polymer in vivo.
More long-term work consists of functionalization of the polymer in order to
manipulate biocompatibility, extent of nerve growth, and rate of biodegradation.
This project is in collaboration with
Dr. Sessler (Chemistry Department). |
