Scott A. Guelcher, Ph.D.

Professor Guelcher’s research interests include biomaterials, drug and cell delivery, tissue engineering, polymer science and engineering, polyurethanes, cancer-induced bone disease, and colloid and surface chemistry. We apply structure-property relationships to design polymeric tissue grafts with biological, physical, and mechanical properties targeted to the requirements of the clinical indication. As an example, we have designed dual-purpose bone grafts for treatment of contaminated wounds that release an antibiotic to control infection and a growth factor to heal the bone. A critical feature of these dual-purpose grafts is the ability to control the release of the antibiotic and growth factor independently at different time scales to optimize healing. We are also designing injectable, settable grafts for healing of bone defects at weight-bearing sites. These grafts are designed to maintain their initial bone-like mechanical properties as they actively remodel and heal to form new bone. In addition to our work on tissue regeneration, we are also investigating how the mechanical properties of the extracellular matrix affect invasion of tumor cells in metastatic bone disease. By understanding the signaling pathways relevant to tumor-induced bone resorption and destruction, we aim to create novel therapies for blocking tumor growth in bone.  Currently active projects are supported by funding from the National Institutes of Health, Department of Defense, and corporate sources. Students participating in this multi-disciplinary research gain experience in materials science, cell culture, and preclinical studies.