Joanna Konopka

The objective of my dissertation is to develop a microsystem to facilitate more detailed study of angiogenesis. Angiogenesis is a process through which the basal vasculature expands into more complex networks. Under physiological conditions, angiogenesis is involved in processes such as wound healing and formation of the corpus luteum. The course of angiogenesis is controlled by a number of pro- and anti- angiogenic factors. Disorders of the distribution of these agents lead to development of various diseases such as cancer, thrombosis and heart attack. Being aware of the fact that the World Health Organization has classified the mentioned diseases as the leading causes of death globally, I believe that the simulation of angiogenesis under microflow conditions may become a breakthrough enabling development of new, more effective, personalized therapies.