Dr. Siedlecki's research interests are centered on elucidating the molecular-level processes involved in the interactions of proteins with biomaterial surfaces. These research activities include determining how the physical and chemical properties of synthetic and natural surfaces (e.g. chemical composition, hydrophilic/hydrophobic balance, surface charge, topography) influence protein structure/function relationships, and the development of novel strategies for synthesis and modification of biomaterials. One area of particular interest is the role of the biomaterial interface on the initial events that promote the formation of surface-induced thrombus on implanted cardiovascular devices. Thrombogenesis is influenced by a series of poorly understood interactions occurring at the blood/biomaterial interface, primarily involving adsorbed and circulating proteins, platelets, and the biomaterial itself. When a biomaterial is placed into contact with blood, a layer of proteins is rapidly adsorbed on the surface. This protein layer may trigger thrombosis through either of 2 pathways. The first of these involves adhesive proteins such as fibrinogen and von Willebrand Factor. These proteins mediate the adhesion and activation of circulating platelets. The second pathway involves Hageman Factor (human coagulation factor XII) and initiates the contact activation pathway of the coagulation cascade.

It has been demonstrated that surface properties of the underlying biomaterial substrate are important in both the nature and extent of thrombogenesis. However, little is known about the underlying mechanisms behind this phenomena. We utilize a variety of surface techniques and in-vivo and in-vitro biological measurements in order to more clearly define what are the roles of surface chemistry, surface functionality, and surface energy in thrombogenesis in order to provide rationale for further development of blood-contacting materials.

New efforts in the lab have focused on the use of bionanotechnologyto alter the response of blood to materials. Preliminary results suggest that both blood coagulation (the protien response) and platelet adhesion can be altered by changing the properties of biomedical materials at the sub-micron level. These studies focus on the applied aspects of biomaterials.

Because our work is both physical and biological in nature, many of my group's publications are not referenced in pubmed. A complete list of publications from my group can be found on my laboratory home page listed below.