Undergraduate Research with Dr. Jessica Winter
Nanobiotechnology, Cell and Tissue Engineering, and Neural Prosthetics
General Research Description
Current Projects
Undergraduate Contributions
Future Undergraduate Projects
Undergraduate Qualifications
Contacts & Links
General Research Description
The primary focus of my research is to develop tools to explore nerve cells and their interaction with the surrounding environment. At the cellular level, I am developing nanoprobes that can enter and manipulate neuronal components. For example, I previously created nanoparticles that convert light to energy, which might be used to excite nerve cells. At the whole tissue level, I am working to polymeric and protein coatings for neural prostheses to enhance biocompatibility and long-term device-tissue integration. For example, in previous work I developed drug-releasing polymeric coatings that entice neurons to grow toward a retinal prosthesis to restore vision.
Current Projects
Undergraduate Contributions
Future Undergraduate Projects
Drug-releasing
polymeric
coatings for
deep brain
stimulation
devices to treat
Parkinson’s.
Deep brain
stimulation has
emerged as a
standard
treatment for
advanced
Parkinson’s
disease;
however, the
electrodes used
produce
inflammation and
some loss of
neural function
over time. We
are designing
device coatings
to improve
biocompatibility
and to enhance
the interface
between neurons
and electrodes
to reduce
chronic nerve
cell death.
Active
nanoprobes to
manipulate
neuron growth
cones for
enhanced nerve
regeneration.
Regenerating and
developing
neurons extend
connections to
other cells
through the
action of a
region at their
tips known as
the growth cone.
The growth cone
is composed
primary of actin,
a polymeric
cytoskeletal
protein that is
constantly
rearranging. We
are developing
nanoparticles
that are
fluorescent and
magnetic to
manipulate and
study the growth
cone in neurons.
These particles
will be
manipulated with
a magnetic field
and then
monitored using
the fluorescent
signal to
examine the role
of actin in
growth cone
extension.
Self-assembly of
nanoparticles
using smart
polymers for
optical displays
(i.e., flat
panel LEDs).
Quantum dot
nanoparticles
have much
promise for
their use in
optical displays
because of their
ability to
convert
electricity to
light of various
wavelengths.
However, one
limitation is
the difficulty
in organizing
and positioning
assemblies of
these particles.
We are
developing new
methods to
assemble these
particles using
smart polymers
that change
shape and
structure with
increases in
temperature.
Using these
polymers, we
plan to create
free-standing
peel-away films
of ordered
nanoparticles
that could be
used to create
paper-thin
optical
displays.
Undergraduate Qualifications
There are no specific requirements for undergraduate research, as any project can be tailored to the level of experience of the individual. Ideally, students would have an interest in cell biology or organic chemistry/polymer synthesis. Experience in neuroscience, nanotechnology, or prosthetics/EE are neither required nor expected. The most important qualities for an undergraduate researcher are:
-
the ability to dedicate large blocks of time to research (at least three hours at a time),
-
an attention to detail (much of my work requires intense concentration and or fine motor skills)
-
enthusiasm and interest in the subject (willingness to read journal articles and become familiar with the field)
I would not encourage individuals simply looking to enhance their CV (i.e., for medical school) to apply. Funding is not currently available; thus research positions are for course credit or volunteer only. Winter will take on non-thesis students and thesis students.
Contacts & Links
Faculty Profile
Biomolecular Curriculum Option The best way to get involved is to contact Dr. Winter directly at winter@chbmeng.ohio-state.edu
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