Bae Lab
The Bae Laboratory is focused on spine tissue engineering research. Both mechanical and biological stimuli have an impact on the intervertebral disc (IVD). Degeneration of the IVD is one of the main causes for lower back pain and is characterized by morphological changes linked to increased levels of inflammatory and catabolic proteins. Furthermore, an altered disc mechanobiology has been shown in degenerated discs compared with healthy discs. Current therapies for IVD degeneration are still unsatisfactory, since they do not treat the underlying process.
Of particular interest in the Bae Lab is the regulation of inflammatory and catabolic proteins in human IVD cells and tissues with and without mechanical stimulation. Furthermore, we are interested in testing potential biological treatments for a reduction of inflammatory and catabolic processes in vitro and in vivo. These include peptides, cells or biomaterials. Understanding the cell responses to mechanical and biological stimuli will help us develop new strategies to treat intervertebral disc degeneration.
The Bae Laboratory is affiliated with the Spine Center and the Surgery Department.
- Regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and matrix metalloproteases in human nucleus pulposus cells in response to mechanical stimulation in a three-dimensional matrix
- Development of novel scaffolds, clinical testing of recombinant proteins (e.g., rhBMP-2) and cell-based treatments for spinal fusion
- Development of biomaterials for repairing critical-size peripheral nerve injury
Collaborations & Resources
Resources
- Flexcell® FX-5000™ Tension and Compression systems
- qPCR
- Zymography
- Nucleus pulposus-, fat- and bone marrow-derived human cells and tissues
Meet Our Team
Learn more about the scientists, faculty members, investigators and other healthcare professionals of the Bae Laboratory, whose dedicated efforts lead to groundbreaking discoveries.
Contact the Bae Lab
127 S. San Vicente Blvd.
Advanced Health Sciences Pavilion, A8521
Los Angeles, CA 90048