University of Michigan

Paul Krebsbach

Scott J Hollister

Joerg Lahann

Suman Das

Gary Daniel Smith

Himabindu Nandivada

Juan M Taboas

Thomas Eyster

Luis Villa Diaz

James K Santosa

Rachel D Maddox

Tien-Min Gabriel Chu

The present invention provides methods and compositions for establishing and maintaining growth of cells and embryonic tissue on a synthetic polymer matrix. For example, the present invention provides synthetic growth matrices for stem cells, gametes, mature differentiated cells, and embryonic tissue (e.g., blastomeres, embryos, and embryoid bodies). In certain embodiments, the cells are capable of going through multiple passages while remaining in an undifferentiated state as a result of the synthetic polymer matrix.

Methods and compositions for growth of cells and embryonic tissue on a synthetic polymer matrix

A selective laser sintering technique and system are provided for producing a heterogeneous product. The selective laser sintering technique and system is generally comprised of generating a computer model of the product and processing the model to obtain numerous cross-sectional representations of the model. The cross-sectional representations are manufactured layer by layer to create the product. Specifically, numerous different powders having a variety of properties are placed within nozzles positioned above a deposition bed using a hopper. Using the computer model as a guide, the different powders are placed at different positions on the deposition bed to form each layer of the device. The deposited powders are consolidated, micromachined, and milled using one or more lasers to create the product. Using this selective laser sintering technique a wide variety of heterogenous products may be produced, such as the following: 1) bio-implants, 2) small scale energy production, storage and conversion devices, 3) devices that exploit anomalous material behavior, and 4) nanocomposites.

Solid freeform fabrication of structurally engineered multifunctional devices

An indirect solid free form scaffold manufacturing technique is provided. More particularly, the present invention provides a set of molds, casting methods, mold removals, and surface modification techniques that are compatible with image-based design methods and with solvent, melt, and slurry casting of polymers and ceramics.

Controlled local/global and micro/macro-porous 3D plastic, polymer and ceramic/cement composite scaffold fabrication and applications thereof

Growing community of inventors

Ann Arbor, MI, United States of America

Paul Krebsbach