Bioengineering Research Group

Bioengineering is the application of engineering principles to the study and control of biological processes. The goal of bioengineering research is to develop, through an integration of engineering and the life sciences, a better understanding of basic mechanisms in disease and new concepts and techniques that may be applied to problems in medicine and biology. Major areas of application include the development of new, advanced medical devices and implants, mechanical testing of biological tissues, and engineering of unique tissue properties.

In the area of biomechanics research, studies are being conducted on detailed fluid dynamic aspects of blood flow in arteries. In tissue mechanics the focus is on cardiovascular, orthopedics, and ophthalmologic applications. Cellular engineering, which is the application of the principles and methods of engineering to studies of biological cells, currently has investigations underway in topics ranging from basic cell biology to cell-based applications. One area of interest is the study of the influence of physical factors on cell structure and function, including the influence of mechanical stresses on the structure and function of vascular cells. Studies are also underway to enhance the understanding of the interaction between cells and tissues and their mechanical environment.

Another area of interest is the biomechanics of adhesion and signaling molecules in the immune system. Georgia Tech is a leader in the area of tissue engineering research which involves the use of living cells and/or other natural biological materials in the development of biological substitutes. The purpose of tissue engineering is to repair, maintain, or enhance function, and it includes applications such as artificial skin, bioartificial organs, blood vessels, and connective tissue.