Development of Model Systems to Investigate Blood Hydrodynamic Parameters Affecting Blood Cell Function: An Interdisciplinary Approach

In this proposal we plan to develop a number of analytical and experimental tools combining advances in both fluid mechanics and biological micro-imaging in the context of blood cell function and more specifically mechano-sensitive signal transduction mechanisms. To achieve this aim biophysical/fluid dynamic tools and models will be developed that directly correlate cellular function with fluid flow properties. The combination of these two traditionally separate branches of science has and will lead to new innovations in both cell biology and fluid mechanics research. The development of novel analytical tools arising from this work may ultimately lead to new intellectual property and attract industry based funding