Lucas R. Smith

Lucas R. Smith

Position Title
Assistant Professor
Graduate Advisor for the Biomedical Engineering Graduate Group

  • Neurobiology, Physiology & Behavior
  • Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
189 Briggs Hall
Bio
Extracellular matrix in skeletal muscle physiology

Our research is focused on understanding the mechanisms by which skeletal muscle adapts, with an emphasis on the fibrotic process that is associated with many muscle pathologies including muscular dystrophies.  We seek to uncover the relationship between the structure of the extracellular matrix and both the mechanical function of muscle and the regenerative capacity of muscle stem cells. These studies will guide novel therapies for fibrotic muscle diseases.

Accepting students per funding availability.

Research Interests & Expertise
  • Skeletal muscle tissue engineering: investigating the mechanisms fibrotic muscle diseases impact the relationship of tissue structure to mechanical function and stem cell function.

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