An important challenge in many biomedical and engineering applications is the prevention of unwanted nonspecific biomolecular and microorganism attachment on surfaces. Since the early 2000s, we have proposed the concept of super-hydrophilic zwitterionic materials, provided a molecular-level understanding of non-fouling mechanisms and developed several new classes of zwitterionic materials, including poly(carboxybetaine), poly(sulfobetaine), poly(trimethylamine N-oxide), poly(zwitterionic phosphatidylserine), and glutamic acid (E) and lysine (K)-containing poly(peptides). We have demonstrated no capsule formation upon subcutaneous implantation in mice up to one year, expansion of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) without differentiation, no anti-coagulants needed for artificial lungs in sheep, no antibodies generated against zwitterionic polymers and long-lasting environmentally benign marine coatings. These highly biocompatible zwitterionic materials are excellent alternatives to widely used poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) counterparts. At Cornell, we aim to (a) integrate immunology into our biomaterial and drug delivery research programs and (b) translate our biomaterials and drug delivery technologies into medical and engineering practice. More specifically, we focus on two areas.

Drug delivery and cancer immunotherapy: We are developing low-immunogenicity and targeted viral and non-viral carriers (e.g., lipid nanoparticles, extracellular vehicles, AAVs, protein conjugates and fusion proteins) for the delivery of mRNAs, DNAs, proteins and small molecules. In collaborations with Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell Vet School and others, we are working on cancer and infectious disease prevent and treatment vaccines along treatments for several diseases.

Biomaterials and regenerative/precious medicine: We are developing highly biocompatible materials, which are biologically inert, immunosuppressive or active, using both rational design and combinatorial screening. In collaborations with Weill Cornell Medicine and others, we are working on controlled cultures of iPSCs and organoids in vitro along with capsule-free long-term implants and anticoagulant-free blood-contacting devices in vivo.

We take a unique holistic approach to our research at the interfaces of materials and biological sciences from fundamental principles to applications. Novel materials and drug carriers are designed, synthesized, tested, improved and applied for a wide range of applications all within our group. The nature of our highly interdisciplinary and collaborative research program enables us to strive towards understanding nature at all levels and to solve real-world challenging problems. Creative ideas and innovative technologies with high and broad impacts are always our emphasis.

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