The Hao Lab’s research focuses on exploring mechanisms/pathological processes of diseases and the interplays between cells and their extracellular environment, while developing cutting-edge tissue engineering platforms and next-generation biomedical products for regenerative medicine and clinical therapies. We are dedicated to integrating scientific innovation with clinical therapeutic efficacy to advance human health - from Bench to Bedside.

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1. Developing microenvironment-responsive biomaterials and medical devices for clinical applications.

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We are developing advanced biomaterials and medical devices that integrate the biological, chemical, mechanical, and electrical cues of the native microenvironment to regulate endogenous cell functions and address pathological processes for various disease treatment.

 

2. Engineering cells and extracellular vesicles for regenerative medicine.

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We are deriving stem cells from diverse sources and investigate the mechanisms underlying their therapeutic benefits to enhance their regenerative potential. We are exploring cell-matrix interaction and developing bioreactors to improve extracellular vesicle (EV) production, including yield and bioactivity. We are further functionalizing EVs with targeting ligands to enhance delivery efficiency and optimize the encapsulation of genes, drugs, and proteins for advanced therapeutic applications.

 

3. Establishing biomimetic dynamic delivery systems of therapeutic agents for disease treatment.

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We are developing smart delivery systems that mimic the structural and functional characteristics of the extracellular matrix (ECM), as well as cell–ECM and EV–ECM interactions, which enable the efficient delivery of therapeutic agents—including stem cells, EVs, drugs, genes, and proteins—for the treatment of diverse diseases.

 

4. Identifying novel biomolecules for tissue engineering and drug delivery/development.

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We are identifying and designing integrin-specific cell-binding ligands, biological targeting molecules, and self-assembling peptides to functionalize biomaterial scaffolds, engineer cells and EVs, and develop next-generation therapeutic compounds.