Christopher K. Tison

Research Interests

• Directed assembly of 3D tissue engineering scaffolds
• Cell-cell and cell-material interactions
• Human mesenchymal stem cell lineage specification and signaling
• Organized 3D scaffolds for investigation of paracrine signaling networks

My current research focuses on implementing directed assembly techniques into developing ordered tissue engineering constructs for the study of paracrine signaling in human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs). By developing organized 3D microconstructs, specific cellular networks can by probed in a combinatorial fashion by “swapping out” various cell-encapsulated microgel building blocks.

Backgrouund

As an undergraduate, I spent three years investigating polymeric materials for use in advanced packaging for flip chip technologies. My Ph.D. work with Dr. Valeria Milam focused on directed assembly of colloidal particles using biologically relevant macromolecules including DNA and proteins. Specifically, my work focused on programming the reversal of DNA-linkages to control particle redispersion in a controlled manner. These “biocolloids” then served as building blocks to fabricate novel material constructs ranging from stimuli-responsive hybrid materials to therapeutic delivery vehicles.

Honors and Awards

NRC NIST Postdoctoral Research Fellow (2009)

Regenerative Medicine Conference Travel Award (2008)

GAANN Fellow: Center for Drug Design, Development and Delivery (2005-2008)

Boeing Fellowship (2005-2008)

Sigma Xi Best Undergraduate Paper Award (2003)

E.J. Grassman Scholarship (2000-2003)

Publications

C.K. Tison, V.T. Milam. “Programming the Kinetics and Extent of Particle Redispersion Using a DNA Trigger.” In preparation.

S.T. Parpart, C.K. Tison, V.T. Milam. “Effects of Mutations on DNA as an Isothermal Assembly and Disassembly Tool.” Submitted.

C.K. Tison, V.T. Milam, “Manipulating DNA Probe Presentation via Enzymatic Cleavage.” Biomacromolecules. 2008. 9: 2468-2476.

C.K. Tison, V.T. Milam, “Reversing DNA-Mediated Adhesion at a Fixed Temperature.” Langmuir. 2007. 23: 9728-9736.