Surface Modified Polymer Conduits for Peripheral Nerve Repair Kacey Marra, University of Pittsburgh, DMR 0705948

1. Intellectual Merit Surface Modified Polymer Conduits for Peripheral Nerve RepairKacey Marra, University of Pittsburgh, DMR 0705948 • Biodegradable nerve guides for long gap injuries, due to trauma, battlefield injury, or tumor removal, are needed. • We are researching novel modifications to polycaprolactone-based guides to enhance axonal regeneration. • These include surface modification and growth factor incorporation. • We have initiated implantation of modified guides into long gap sciatic nerve defects in rodents. Scanning electron micrograph of cross-section of biodegradable nerve guide containing slow–release capsules.

2. Broader Impacts We are introducing biomedical engineering topics to female and minority pre-college students, and promoting opportunities for these students to become involved in biomaterials and tissue engineering research in a ROHSS program (Research Opportunities for High School Students). We are enhancing and stimulating scientific literacy in biomedical engineering at both the undergraduate and graduate levels by involvement of students in research and outreach activities. This research benefits society through presentations to the community at museums, science centers, and local high schools. We have had an additional six high school students participate in the ROHSS program since the commencement of this grant. We are planning on extending this program from one day to one week beginning in 2009. Surface Modified Polymer Conduits for Peripheral Nerve RepairKacey Marra, University of Pittsburgh, DMR 0705948