Research Topic
We investigate the impact of extracellular matrix properties on cell behavior, in particular in the context of angiogenesis. Specifically, we study how the interplay of matrix mechanics, degradability and adhesivity controls angiogenic sprouting. Since these parameters cannot be separated in in vivo tissues, we develop novel synthetic hydrogels with independently tunable matrix properties.
By integrating our hydrogels into microfluidic devices, we are able to closely mimic the process of angiogenic sprouting within a controllable environment. Taking a highly interdisciplinary approach, our research combines mechanistic cell biology studies with novel materials chemistry and platform engineering.
Selected Publications
- Weiß M.S., Trapani G., Long H., and Trappmann B. (2024). Matrix resistance toward proteolytic cleavage controls contractility-dependent migration modes during angiogenic sprouting. Advanced Science, in press. doi: 10.1002/advs.202305947.
- Long H., Vos B.E., Betz T., Baker B.M., and Trappmann B. (2022). Nonswelling and Hydrolytically Stable Hydrogels Uncover Cellular Mechanosensing in 3D. Advanced Science 9, 2105325. doi: 10.1002/advs.202105325.
- Liu J., Long H., Zeuschner D., Räder A.F.B., Polacheck W.J., Kessler H., Sorokin L., and Trappmann B. (2021). Synthetic extracellular matrices with tailored adhesiveness and degradability support lumen formation during angiogenic sprouting. Nature Communications 12, 3402. doi: 10.1038/s41467-021-23644-5.
- Govindasamy N., Long H., Jeong H.W., Raman R., Özcifci B., Probst S., Arnold S., Riehemann K., Ranga A., Adams R.H., Trappmann B., and Bedzhov I. (2021). 3D biomimetic platform reveals the first interactions of the embryo and the maternal blood vessels. Developmental Cell 5, 3276. doi: 10.1016/j.devcel.2021.10.014.
- Trappmann B., Baker B.M., Polacheck W.J., Choi C.K., Burdick J.A., and Chen C.S. (2017). Matrix degradability controls multicellularity of 3D cell migration. Nature Communications 8, 371. doi: 10.1038/s41467-017-00418-6.