Regenerative Medicine at the McGowan Institute

A multidisciplinary team of researchers led by Dr Francipane in collaboration with McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine faculty, Dr. D’Amore, has engineered a Human-Size Common Bile Duct Prototype with Regenerative Potential. The construct combines methacrylated collagen (CollMA) and polycaprolactone (PCL) into a triple-layered structure that supports the growth of biliary epithelial cells. The prototype demonstrates stability under physiological conditions, facilitates bile flow without leakage, and exhibits bile acid transport and modification activities. These characteristics support further in vivo preclinical evaluation. This represents a significant advancement for bile duct engineering, with potential to induce favorable immune response, limit inflammation and promote sustained release of epidermal growth factor (EGF).