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Abstract: Tissue engineering offers promising avenues for regenerating bone tissues, particularly in cases of critical-sized craniofacial bone loss. Our research focuses on leveraging advanced biomaterials and stem cell-based techniques to enhance functional recovery. We've discovered that skeletal sensory nerves play crucial roles in bone healing. However, in non-healing injuries, nerves persist, potentially hindering bone healing. Thus, understanding the intricate interplay between nerves, vasculature, osteoprogenitor differentiation, and mineral deposition is vital for developing effective therapeutic strategies. Through systematic investigation, we aim to elucidate the role of nerves in modulating bone growth across various stages of development and aging. This knowledge informs the development of targeted therapies for bone healing and addressing related diseases.

Bio: Dr. Warren Grayson is a Professor, Vice-Chair of Faculty Affairs in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at Johns Hopkins University. Dr. Grayson is also a founding member and the current Director of the Translational Tissue Engineering Center – a multidisciplinary center that houses nine labs with close to 150 researchers. His Laboratory for Craniofacial and Orthopaedic Tissue Engineering focuses on developing advanced therapeutics for the regeneration of bone and skeletal muscle. Dr. Grayson obtained his B.Sc. in Chemical & Process Engineering at The University of the West Indies (Trinidad), his Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from Florida State University, and completed his postdoctoral training at Columbia University in New York. Dr. Grayson’s work on bioreactor design and engineering anatomically shaped bone grafts received national and international coverage in various news agencies including the New York Times, BBC, and Corriere della Serra and led to the formation of the company, EpiBone. Dr. Grayson’s scientific contributions and impact have been recognized by various entities. He received the Maryland Science Center Outstanding Young Engineer award (2010) and awards from the Orthopaedic Research Society (2007), the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (2013), Young Investigator Award from TERMIS (2014), and the prestigious Early Faculty CAREER Award from the National Science Foundation (2014). In 2019, he was elected as a fellow of the American Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering. He has also been recognized by the National Academy of Medicine as an Emerging Leader in Health and Medicine.