Research Topic:

Islet Macroencapsulation Device Design

Cell encapsulation is a technique that can make cell therapies safer and more accessible to patients. Encapsulation can reduce or possibly eliminate the need for immunosuppression, making cell therapies safer. Additionally, cells encapsulated in larger “macroencapsulation” devices are more easily retrieved if necessary, but these devices typically have poor oxygen transport. The Weaver Lab develops macroencapsulation device fabrication methods and geometries that improve encapsulated cell performance and facilitate translation to the clinic.