The Darling Lab conducts research in the areas of cell and tissue mechanics, mesenchymal stem cell biology, musculoskeletal tissue regeneration, and drug delivery. Our primary focus is to understand the intersection of mechanics and biology, with associated projects ranging from purely basic science to clinical and commercial translation. Additionally, we have a keen interest in cellular heterogeneity and what effects this has on data interpretation and experimental design. Central to our pursuits is the study of adult stem cells, particularly the identification of novel biological and mechanical markers indicative of cell fate and regenerative potential. Mechanical characterization (mechanophenotyping) is accomplished on a single-cell basis using atomic force microscopy (AFM) and novel cytometry devices. An off-shoot of these efforts resulted in the invention of hyper-compliant microparticles, which are being explored as in situ force sensors, microfluidic calibration tools, and cell mimicking drug delivery vehicles. Biological experiments involve standard cell culture and tissue engineering procedures combined with the most recent molecular and biochemical technologies. We regularly develop novel tools and techniques to meet the needs of these projects. While specific projects change often, the Darling Lab has continuous research thrusts in the following areas:

Focus areas:

• Mechanobiology
  • Microenvironmental force measurement
  • Single-cell mechanophenotyping
• Regenerative medicine/tissue engineering
  • Hyper-compliant microcarriers for extended drug delivery
• Stem cell biology and applications
  • Mechanical property-based enrichment of lineage-preference stem cells
• Musculoskeletal systems 
  • Neotissue force characterization during limb development

Not pictured: Prerna Chordiya, Yui Miura, Abie Otote, Rhea Rasquinha, Sharon Roberts