Mathematical modeling and experiments are used to study transport phenomena in biology and medicine. Basic and applied research are integrated and often involve collaboration with the medical school and industry. The emphasis of most of the research in this group falls into three specific organ systems: the lung, the eye, and the cardiovascular system.
Tissue fluid balance is an important area of focus. In tissue, transport is a result of a balance between the mechanical state and the interstitial composition and structure, along with microvascular permeability and lymphatic function. We are examining these processes, particularly in the lung, where most pathologies are associated with changes in fluid balance and matrix architecture. In the eye, studies concentrate on the mechanics of the microcirculation and oxygen transport in the retina. We are characterizing transport processes under normal and pathological conditions, such as the lesions that occur in diabetes, sickle cell disease and other conditions associated with microvascular disease (Glucksberg, Linsenmeier). Toward these ends, optical imaging methods are under development to provide surgeons with new options for diagnosing and treating diseases of the retina (Glucksberg, Walsh). Another blinding disease, glaucoma, provides the impetus for studying mechanisms regulating intraocular pressure (Johnson). Among the cardiopulmonary devices in development are artificial lungs and blood-processing equipment. Current research is aimed at developing devices to be used for the intermediate term (days or weeks) for either the treatment of acute but reversible conditions or the support of a failing lung until a transplant can be found. Blood-processing research focuses on the mechanics of flow through porous-walled tubes. In all cases, the engineering objective is to optimize function while causing minimal trauma to the blood (Mockros).
