News -

1Apr

By Patrick YangNo Comments

Academic Publications, Research and Innovation, Science and Technology, Women's Health

🔬📚 Newsflash: New Research Paper Explores Impact of Gelatin Bloom Strength on GelMA Hydrogel Properties

Date: March 29, 2024 St. Louis, MO - A recent research paper titled “Evaluation of gelatin bloom strength on gelatin methacryloyl hydrogel properties” was published by our group in the Journal of the Mechanical Behavior of Biomedical Materials. Authored by Dr. Samantha G. Zambuto, Samyuktha S. Kolluru, Eya Ferchichi, Hannah F. Rudewick, Daniella M. Fodera, Dr. Kristin M. Myers, Dr. Silviya P. Zustiak, and Dr. Michelle L. Oyen, the study investigates the impact of gelatin bloom strength on hydrogel mechanical properties. Results reveal that both bloom strength and GelMA weight percent influence stiffness and viscoelastic ratio, while bloom strength specifically affects diffusivity, permeability, and pore size. The research, showcasing a library of GelMA hydrogels with varying proper...

🔬📚 Newsflash: New Research Paper Explores Innovative Approaches to Placenta Modeling

1Apr

By Patrick YangNo Comments

Academic Publications, Healthcare Research, Research and Innovation, Science and Technology, Women's Health

🔬📚 Newsflash: New Research Paper Explores Innovative Approaches to Placenta Modeling

Date: March 31, 2024 St. Louis, MO - A research paper titled “Beyond 2D: Novel biomaterial approaches for modeling the placenta” has been recently published by Dr. Samantha Zambuto, Dr. Adrienne Scott, and Dr. Michelle Oyen. The paper explores three-dimensional biomaterial environments for placenta research, offering insights into the complexities of this vital organ. Exploring advanced fabrication techniques such as microfluidic device fabrication and 3D bioprinting, the paper showcases the potential for in vitro, three-dimensional placenta research to address health disparities and sexual dimorphism. Overall, this paper provides a framework to understand and model the placenta, opening new avenues for future research in women’s health and pregnancy-related disorders. Read the ful...

Center for Reproductive Health Sciences and Center for Women’s Health Engineering Host Successful Open House Event

1Apr

By Patrick YangNo Comments

events, Science and Technology, Women's Health

Center for Reproductive Health Sciences and Center for Women’s Health Engineering Host Successful Open House Event

Elevating collaboration: A snapshot capturing the vibrant energy and knowledge exchange at the joint open house event hosted by CRepHS and CWHE. 🌐🔬Samantha Zambuto (right) and Julie Emmerich (left) proudly standing in front of our poster at the collaborative open house event hosted by CRepHS and CWHE.Adrienne Scott (right) engrossed in a dynamic conversation with Rowan Karvas (left).Samantha Zambuto (right) and Antonina Frolova (left) engrossed in a meaningful conversation. Date: December 6, 2023 St. Louis, MO - In a collaborative triumph, the Center for Reproductive Health Sciences (CRepHS) and the Center for Women's Health Engineering (CWHE) joined forces to host an immensely successful open house event on December 5, 2023. Held at Washington University's Medical Campus, the event...

Advancing Women’s Health: Dr. Michelle Oyen’s Vision in Focus on St. Louis Public Radio

1Apr

By Patrick YangNo Comments

Interesting, Women's Health

Advancing Women’s Health: Dr. Michelle Oyen’s Vision in Focus on St. Louis Public Radio

Diving into the intricate world of bioengineering: Samantha Zambuto, immersed in the lab, crafting innovations that push the boundaries of science. Date: December 6th, 2023 St. Louis, MO - In a recent interview with St. Louis Public Radio conducted by Emily Woodbury, Dr. Michelle Oyen, a distinguished bioengineer at Washington University and leader of the Center for Women's Health Engineering, shed light on the critical need for increased research and funding in the realm of women's health. The discussion came in the wake of First Lady Jill Biden's announcement of the nation's first initiative for women's health research, drawing attention to the chronic underfunding of research in this vital field. Dr. Oyen emphasized the pervasive gaps in knowledge surrounding both reproductive...

📣 Newsflash: Dr. Michelle Oyen Leads Insightful Discussion on Digital Twins in Pregnancy at the Royal Society of Medicine Meeting

1Apr

By Patrick YangNo Comments

Healthcare Research, Research and Innovation, Science and Technology, Women's Health

📣 Newsflash: Dr. Michelle Oyen Leads Insightful Discussion on Digital Twins in Pregnancy at the Royal Society of Medicine Meeting

Dr. Michelle Oyen (right) captivating the audience with her groundbreaking insights at the Royal Society of Medicine meeting, as she discusses digital twins in pregnancy. Seated on the left, Roger Highfield, absorbed in the wealth of knowledge being shared. Date: November 3, 2023 London, UK - In a captivating session at the Royal Society of Medicine meeting, Dr. Michelle Oyen took center stage to share her expertise on the groundbreaking concept of digital twins in pregnancy. Dr. Oyen, renowned for her work in biomechanics and women's health, delved into the intricacies of digital twin modeling, shedding light on its applications in pregnancy research. Notably, her pioneering work includes modeling C-section scars, exemplifying the potential of digital twins to revolutionize our und...

Dr. Michelle L. Oyen Inducted into AIMBE College of Fellows

1Apr

By Patrick YangNo Comments

Academic Achievements, awards

Dr. Michelle L. Oyen Inducted into AIMBE College of Fellows

Dr. Michelle L. Oyen proudly holds her induction certificate into the prestigious AIMBE College of Fellows, alongside Prof. Mike King (left), 2023 chair of AIMBE College of Fellows, and Prof. Joyce Wong (right), Past President of AIMBE. Date: March 26, 2024 St. Louis, MO - Dr. Michelle L. Oyen, the esteemed Director of the Center for Women’s Health Engineering at Washington University in St. Louis, has been honored with induction into the American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering (AIMBE). The prestigious ceremony, held on March 25 in Arlington, VA, saw Dr. Oyen among 162 esteemed colleagues inducted into this distinguished group. Election to AIMBE’s is a rare honor, limited to the top 2% of medical and biological engineers in their respective fields. The induction...

📣 Newsflash: Dr. Samantha Zambuto to Deliver Seminal Seminar on Engineering Biomimetic Materials for Female Reproductive and Gynecologic Health

1Apr

By Patrick YangNo Comments

Academic Achievements, Meet the Team, Research and Innovation, Women's Health

📣 Newsflash: Dr. Samantha Zambuto to Deliver Seminal Seminar on Engineering Biomimetic Materials for Female Reproductive and Gynecologic Health

Samantha Zambuto, PhD: Postdoctoral Scholar Date: January 26, 2024 at 2pmLocation: University of California San Diego at the FUNG Auditorium - PFBH In a pioneering endeavor, Dr. Samantha Zambuto, PhD is set to deliver a transformative seminar, "Engineering Biomimetic Materials for Female Reproductive and Gynecologic Health," on January 26, 2024 at 2pm, in the FUNG Auditorium - PFBH located at University of California San Diego. Focused on the historically understudied realms of female reproductive and gynecologic health, Dr. Zambuto will delve into the unique biomechanical environment of the female reproductive tract by utilizing gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) hydrogels to mimic and, instruct, and define the cellular microenvironment. Through the synergistic techniques of tissue engin...

16Nov

By Patrick YangNo Comments

Healthcare Research, outreach, Research and Innovation, Science and Technology, Women's Health

Oyen Lab Welcomes Innovative Phantoms

Dr. Adrienne Scott expertly utilizes ultrasound technology to explore the intricacies of fetal development within the advanced phantom.Samantha Zambuto holds EpiLume.Samyuktha Kolluru, with precision and focus, employs ultrasound to unravel the mysteries within the innovative phantom. Date: October 20, 2023 St. Louis, MO - In a groundbreaking development, the Oyen Lab at Washington University has acquired state-of-the-art pregnancy phantoms, providing an unprecedented glimpse into the intricate world of maternal health research. These phantoms, meticulously crafted replicas of a pregnant woman's womb during the second trimester, aim to showcase the lab's pioneering work to the scientific community and the public. The centerpiece of these phantoms is a lifelike representation of a...

📣 Newsflash: Oyen Lab’s Resounding Success at BMES 2023!

19Oct

By Patrick YangNo Comments

events, Healthcare Research, Women's Health

📣 Newsflash: Oyen Lab’s Resounding Success at BMES 2023!

Samantha Zambuto, Leading the Way: Sharing Insights on Vaginal Tissue Engineering at BMES 2023 Date: October 19, 2023 Saint Louis, MO - The Oyen Lab's journey to the Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES) 2023 Annual Meeting in Seattle was nothing short of a resounding success! With a dynamic presence and a slate of compelling presentations, they made a significant impact on the biomedical engineering community. Dr. Samantha Zambuto set the stage with her illuminating presentation on "Composite Elastin Nanofiber-Gelatin Methacryloyl Hydrogels for Vaginal Tissue Engineering." Her groundbreaking research captured the attention of the audience, further solidifying the lab's position at the forefront of innovative tissue engineering. Dr. Michelle L. Oyen enriched the event with her...

Professor Michelle L. Oyen Appointed as Obstetrics and Gynecology Professor at Washington University

6Oct

By Patrick YangNo Comments

Academic Achievements, Healthcare Research

Professor Michelle L. Oyen Appointed as Obstetrics and Gynecology Professor at Washington University

Inaugural Director of the Center for Women's Health Engineering Elevates Women's Healthcare Research Date: September 20, 2023 St. Louis, Missouri - Professor Michelle L. Oyen, an accomplished researcher with a profound dedication to women's health engineering, has been appointed as a Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Washington University in St. Louis. This esteemed recognition marks a significant milestone in her illustrious career, adding a new dimension to her already distinguished role as the inaugural Director of the Center for Women’s Health Engineering. Dr. Oyen's journey to this prestigious position is characterized by her extensive background in materials and biomechanics, which has led her to tackle diverse challenges in tissue mechanics and biomimetic mater...

Samyuktha Kolluru Appointed Vice Chair of Global Health Student Advisory, Paving the Way for Student Leadership

6Oct

By Patrick YangNo Comments

Academic Achievements

Samyuktha Kolluru Appointed Vice Chair of Global Health Student Advisory, Paving the Way for Student Leadership

Committed Advocate for Global Health Joins Leadership Team Date: September 20, 2023 St. Louis, Missouri - In a significant stride towards advancing global health initiatives, Samyuktha Kolluru, a dedicated advocate for global health, has been appointed as the Vice Chair of the Global Health Student Advisory at Washington University. Her appointment underscores her commitment to driving positive change and her passion for improving healthcare on a global scale. The Global Health Student Advisory plays a pivotal role in shaping the direction and focus of global health initiatives at Washington University. As Vice Chair, Samyuktha Kolluru will assume a leadership position that allows her to contribute her insights, ideas, and dedication to the cause of global health. Her role wi...

Oyen Lab Inspires High School Students with Fascinating Placental Science Outreach Event

6Oct

By Patrick YangNo Comments

events, outreach, Science and Technology

Oyen Lab Inspires High School Students with Fascinating Placental Science Outreach Event

Pattonville High School Biological Science Students Engage with Cutting-Edge Research "Samyuktha Kolluru (Right) demonstrating ultrasound on the hydrogel phantom containing water beads, heart, and star-shaped sponges while Adrienne Scott (left) observes attentively." Date: September 20, 2023 St. Louis, Missouri - In a remarkable outreach effort, the Oyen Lab at Washington University opened its doors to a group of eager young minds from Pattonville High School's Biological Science program. Dr. Adrienne Scott, a leading researcher in the lab, took the students on a captivating journey through the world of placental science, showcasing equipment and materials while engaging them with hands-on demonstrations that made complex concepts come to life. The visit began with Dr. Adrienn...

Dr. Samantha Zambuto and Dr. Adrienne Scott Shine at IFPA Conference, Forge Key Connections for Innovative Research

6Oct

By Patrick YangNo Comments

Academic Achievements, Research and Innovation, Science and Technology

Dr. Samantha Zambuto and Dr. Adrienne Scott Shine at IFPA Conference, Forge Key Connections for Innovative Research

Postdoctoral Scholars from Washington University Leave a Mark with Hydrogel and AI-Driven Placental Studies Adrienne Scott (right) captivating the audience, presenting her pioneering placental research to Anna David's husband (left) at the IFPA Conference.Samantha Zambuto proudly stands next to her IFPA Conference poster, showcasing innovative placental research.Anna David (Left) and Adrienne Scott (Right) Date: 11 September 2023 Rotorua, New Zealand - Dr. Samantha Zambuto and Dr. Adrienne Scott, two brilliant Postdoctoral Scholars from Washington University, made waves at the recent International Federation of Placenta Association (IFPA) Conference in Rotorua, New Zealand. Their innovative research on hydrogels, AI, and placental health not only captivated the audience but also ...

Oyen Lab Enhances Research Capabilities with Cutting-Edge OCT Microscope from Thor Labs

6Oct

By Patrick YangNo Comments

Research and Innovation, Science and Technology

Oyen Lab Enhances Research Capabilities with Cutting-Edge OCT Microscope from Thor Labs

Patrick Yang and Samyuktha Kolluru Spearhead Integration and Training with Thor Labs Expert Martin Thunert Date: 5 September 2023 St. Louis, Missouri - The Oyen Lab at Washington University has taken a significant leap forward in its research capabilities with the acquisition of a state-of-the-art Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) Microscope generously provided by Thor Labs. Patrick Yang, the lab manager, and Samyuktha Kolluru, a dedicated PhD graduate student, have undertaken the task of setting up and mastering this cutting-edge technology under the guidance of Martin Thunert, an expert from Thor Labs. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is a revolutionary imaging technique that provides high-resolution, non-invasive imaging of biological tissues. Its applications in medica...

Washington University’s Trailblazing Scholars Dr. Samantha Zambuto and Dr. Adrienne Scott to Illuminate IFPA Conference in Rotorua

6Oct

By Patrick YangNo Comments

Academic Achievements, Research and Innovation, Science and Technology

Washington University’s Trailblazing Scholars Dr. Samantha Zambuto and Dr. Adrienne Scott to Illuminate IFPA Conference in Rotorua

Samantha Zambuto and Adrienne Scott to Present Pioneering Work in Placental Health and Technology Integration Adrienne Scott (Left) and Samantha Zambuto (Right) preparing to leave for New ZealandAdrienne Scott (Left) and Samantha Zambuto (Right) being safe for their trip Date: 1 September 2023 St. Louis, Missouri - The International Federation of Placenta Association (IFPA) Conference, slated from September 5 to September 8, 2023, in scenic Rotorua, New Zealand, is on the horizon, and it promises to be an arena of groundbreaking discoveries in the realm of maternal and fetal health. Two distinguished scholars from Washington University, Dr. Samantha Zambuto and Dr. Adrienne Scott, are set to take center stage, sharing their innovative research that holds the potential to revoluti...

📣 Newsflash:Oyen Lab Presenting at BMES in Seattle!

4Oct

By Patrick YangNo Comments

events, Healthcare Research, Women's Health

📣 Newsflash:Oyen Lab Presenting at BMES in Seattle!

Date: 4 October 2023 Seattle, WA - The Oyen Lab is gearing up for the Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES) 2023 Annual Meeting, set to take place at the Seattle Convention Center from October 11 to October 14. The lab members have an exciting lineup of presentations and discussions in store. 🔬Dr. Samantha Zambuto will be in the spotlight on October 12, from 12:45 pm to 1:00 pm PDT. She will be presenting her research on "Composite Elastin Nanofiber-Gelatin Methacryloyl Hydrogels for Vaginal Tissue Engineering." Dr. Zambuto will also be presenting her future research goals at the 2023 Meet the Faculty program on October 11, from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm PDT in Exhibit Hall 2. Her poster number is 89-CM. Don't miss this opportunity to delve into cutting-edge advancements in tissue engi...

12Sep

By Patrick YangNo Comments

Equipment

Instron Microindenter

Samyuktha Kolluru (Left) and Erica Marquez (Right) working with the microindenter Precision at the Microscale In the realm of microscale mechanics and materials research, precision is our compass, and innovation is our goal. Welcome to our research laboratory, where we introduce you to the transformative capabilities of the Instron Microindenter—a foundational instrument that propels our microscale mechanical investigations, offering the precision and insights essential to advancing our team's collective knowledge. The microindenter is more than a piece of equipment; it's an enabler of groundbreaking discoveries and collaborative excellence. Here's how it empowers our team's research endeavors: Microscale Precision: Our team relies on the microindenter's unparalleled precisio...

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) Microscope

12Sep

By Patrick YangNo Comments

Equipment

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) Microscope

Welcome to a world of unprecedented vision and insight. Discover the remarkable capabilities of the Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) Microscope, a revolutionary instrument that empowers one to explore the hidden intricacies of biological tissues, materials, and structures. Gateway to Clarity: Micron-Level Precision: OCT is renowned for its exceptional imaging capabilities, allowing one to capture cross-sectional images with incredible detail. Peer beneath the surface, visualize tissue layers, and unveil the microstructures. Adaptability Across Domains: OCT seamlessly adapts to a wide range of applications, from diagnosing medical conditions to assessing material integrity. Efficiency Redefined: Time is of the essence in one's work. The OCT Microscope enhances one's work...

12Sep

By Patrick YangNo Comments

Equipment

Dremel DigiLab 3D Printer

In the world of research, innovation and precision are paramount. Welcome to our laboratory, where we introduce you to the exceptional capabilities of the Dremel DigiLab 3D Printer. Your Creative Playground: Precision Engineering: Experience the power of precision with this 3D printer. It transforms your digital designs into physical prototypes with exceptional accuracy, allowing you to explore intricate details and test your hypotheses with confidence. Endless Exploration: Whether you're delving into the realms of material science, biology, or engineering, the Dremel Digilab 3D Printer adapts seamlessly to your research needs. It's a versatile tool that enables you to prototype a wide range of objects and components. User-Friendly Design: Modern 3D printing technology en...

12Sep

By Patrick YangNo Comments

Equipment

MECC Nanon Electrospinner

In the realm of cutting-edge research, precision and innovation reign supreme. Welcome to our laboratory, where we introduce you to the groundbreaking capabilities of the MECC Nanon Electrospinner—an instrumental tool poised to revolutionize the field of nanofiber research. Empowering Nanoscale Exploration: Nanoscale Precision: Immerse yourself in the world of nanotechnology with unmatched precision. The Electrospinner transforms polymer solutions into ultrafine fibers with meticulous accuracy, enabling you to explore the most intricate nanofiber structures and materials with confidence. Endless Possibilities: Whether you're exploring tissue engineering, advanced materials, or filtration technologies, the Electrospinner seamlessly adapts to your research needs. It's a versat...