UMass Amherst researchers have been recognized with Trailblazer R21 Awards from the National Institutes of Health for their groundbreaking work in medical technology. The two recipients, T. Leo Liu, an assistant professor in mechanical and industrial engineering, and Prabhani Atukorale, an assistant professor in biomedical engineering, will each receive $400,000 over three years to support their innovative research.
Liu is working on a cutting-edge project that involves the development of a new generation of brain-computer interfaces. His research is centered around creating liquid metal-enabled soft neural probes that can adapt to the brain’s movements and minimize the body’s immune response. This is a significant advancement from current neural probe designs that often cause injuries due to their rigid structure.
Liu’s design is inspired by the shapeshifting robots in the “Terminator” films and uses metals that are liquid at body temperature, such as gallium, to create a flexible and stretchable probe. This probe will be rigid during implantation but will soften after being placed inside the body, making it more compatible with the brain’s natural movements. This innovative approach could revolutionize the study of neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases by providing stable and reliable data over extended periods.
On the other hand, Atukorale is focusing her efforts on developing a novel method for cancer vaccination. Her research involves the use of nanomaterials-based carriers to deliver a three-drug “super-adjuvant”. This unique approach allows for the delivery of all three adjuvant molecules to the same target cell, overcoming previous hurdles associated with their physical distinctiveness.
Atukorale’s method differs from traditional vaccines as it does not contain an antigen. Instead, the antigens are provided by the shedding tumor, enabling a highly personalized immune response. This strategy is particularly effective in dealing with rapidly mutating diseases like cancer. By going directly to the tumor, this approach also bypasses the tumor’s immunosuppressive microenvironment, a crucial factor for aggressive tumors such as triple-negative breast cancer.
The research conducted by Liu and Atukorale is a testament to the potential of electronics and computers in the field of medical technology. Their work exemplifies how programming languages and coding can be used to create innovative solutions for pressing health issues.
Atukorale’s lab, part of UMass Amherst located at UMass Chan Medical School, is a prime example of the fusion of engineering and medicine. The resources available within this two-campus ecosystem provide a unique environment for cancer nanotechnologists and immunotherapists to thrive and succeed.
The Trailblazer R21 Awards from the National Institutes of Health are a recognition of the groundbreaking work being done by researchers at UMass Amherst. The innovative projects being undertaken by Liu and Atukorale could potentially revolutionize the treatment of neurological disorders and cancer, highlighting the significant role that electronics, computers, programming languages, and coding play in medical technology today. Their work serves as an inspiration for future researchers in the field and a beacon of hope for patients worldwide.