Researchers successfully grow human heart cells on spinach leaves by perfusing fluids and microbeads through the plant's vascular system, paving the way for using multiple leaves to treat heart attack patients. The technique could also be adapted for other tissues, such as bone engineering.
Dr. Scarlett Shell is awarded a $1.1 million NSF CAREER Award to investigate the molecular mechanisms of bacteria's stress response, which could lead to new treatments for infectious diseases like tuberculosis. Her work aims to enrich educational experiences for students and inspire careers in science.
WPI researchers develop a liquid biopsy chip that can trap and identify metastatic cancer cells in small amounts of blood. The device uses antibodies attached to carbon nanotubes, which create an electrical signature that can be detected to identify captured cells.
A new semiconductor nanocomposite material can convert photons into mechanical motion, enabling microscopic robotic grippers and more efficient solar cells. The material's unique exciton resonance contributes to its extraordinary strength and optical absorption.
The National Institutes of Health awards a four-year grant to analyze the molecular signals influencing gene-expression patterns that can lead to heart disease. The research aims to understand the mechanisms of cardiac diseases and identify potential therapeutic targets.
Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute and the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth discovered flavonols in cranberry juice significantly reduce E.coli adhesion, which can cause bacterial infections. The findings may lead to new antibiotic drug targets and alternative treatments for 'superbugs'.
Researchers at WPI and Penn used laboratory experiments and computational modeling to study the interactions between molecular motors, filaments, and membranes. They found that a single myosin-1 molecule is not enough to generate sufficient force against slippery membranes, requiring up to 124 molecules working together.
Professor Susan Landau argues the FBI's approach is outdated and needs investment in '21st century investigative savvy' to secure smartphones. The agency must invest in building up its technical understanding to conduct modern cyber investigations.
A team of researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute and California Institute of Technology has found a neural network in male worms that processes sex-specific sensory cues, allowing them to make decisions about pursuing mates. The network involves four male-specific sensory neurons that communicate with each other through synapti...
The USABC has awarded a $1 million contract to WPI to scale up a novel process for recycling lithium-ion batteries. The process recovers cathode materials, which can be reused in new batteries at a significant cost reduction.
Worcester Polytechnic Institute researchers are using a $1.3 million NIH award to model the use of copper in bacteria to gain advantages in the arms race between bacterial infections and antibiotic drugs.
A research team at Worcester Polytechnic Institute is developing new tools and technology to detect fatigue damage in aircraft components. This work has the potential to keep military aircraft in service longer while improving safety and reducing costs for commercial airlines.
A team led by Dmitry Korkin will analyze vast genomic data to find common genetic elements, known as LIMEs, that have remained unchanged over millions of years. These sequences are likely to perform vital functions in cells and provide insight into the roles they play.
Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute have developed a method for chemically separating rare earth elements, such as neodymium, dysprosium, and praseodymium, from the drive units of discarded electric and hybrid vehicles. This technology has the potential to reduce the United States' dependence on China for these vital materials.
A new chemical process developed by WPI's Marion Emmert may significantly improve pharmaceuticals' ability to bind with biological targets, producing therapeutic effects. The team aims to streamline production of existing drugs like Asacol, shortening its manufacturing time.
Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute are exploring the use of soft robots in various fields, including medicine and disaster response. The goal is to develop intelligent surgical assistants that can help surgeons perform more effective manipulation during surgery.
Worcester Polytechnic Institute researcher Amity Manning is awarded $747,000 from the National Institutes of Health to explore molecular mechanisms driving genetic instability in cancer cells. The goal is to turn the genetic tables against cancer by understanding how specific molecules affect DNA packaging and organization.
Diran Apelian, Worcester Polytechnic Institute professor, received the Audubon Society's Joan Hodges Queneau Palladium Medal for his work on sustainable resource recovery and recycling. The medal recognizes his efforts to encourage cooperation between engineers and environmentalists.
Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute are working on a three-year NIH-funded study to analyze how mechanical forces and cellular growth factors affect human heart valve biology. The goal is to develop more natural and longer-lasting replacement valves.
The Sugar app, developed at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, is entering a pilot clinical study to assess its effectiveness in managing diabetes. The app tracks blood sugar levels, weight, exercise, and wound care, providing patients with personalized messages and insights.
A new statistical model developed by WPI's Patrick Flaherty allows better identification of different cell types found in solid tumors, enabling more targeted treatment options. The GLAD model accurately predicted the fractions of various subtypes in glioblastoma tumors and has potential applications in breast cancer treatment.
A study by Worcester Polytechnic Institute found that paralyzed patients lose mechanical strength in their leg bones faster than expected, putting them at greater risk for fractures from minor stresses. Early therapies are crucial to maintain bone mass and strength.
A novel robotic system is being tested to determine if it can make prostate cancer biopsies faster, more accurate, less costly, and less discomforting for patients. The robot uses real-time MRI images to guide the insertion of needles, potentially delivering therapies with greater precision.
Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute are developing a novel way to manufacture metal-ceramic composites for use in vehicles. The new technique involves the formation of nano-reinforcements directly within the molten metal, resulting in less expensive and more flexible materials.
A WPI research team will test a plant-based therapy for malaria that may be highly effective and low-cost. The therapy uses dried leaves from the sweet wormwood plant, Artemisia annua.
The WPI team has received a $50,000 grant from the National Science Foundation's Innovation Corps program to explore commercial potential of their new technology. They are engineering surfaces with antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) to prevent infections on catheters, orthopedic implants and other medical devices.
Worcester Polytechnic Institute is leading a $7.4 million Army project to develop more durable and cost-effective alloys for military vehicles. The research will focus on designing lightweight alloys that can meet specific military needs, including strength, toughness, and fuel economy.
The WPI Metal Processing Institute will contribute its expertise in lightweight metal casting and heat treatment to a new $148 million national manufacturing initiative. The initiative aims to create over 10,000 new metals manufacturing jobs and spur innovative research and development in lightweight metals processing.
Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute are investigating ways for robots to work alongside humans in settings like manufacturing plants and elderly homes. They aim to develop algorithms that enable robots to collaborate with people on tasks, enhancing productivity without compromising safety.
A research team at Worcester Polytechnic Institute has developed a novel system to image brain activity in worms. The technology can be used to study the genetics and neural circuitry associated with animal behavior and screen early stage compounds aimed at treating autism, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, and other brain disorders.
Researchers will design and test kites that harness ocean currents and tidal flows to generate electricity, potentially offering advantages over stationary marine turbines. The project aims to develop a more efficient and cost-effective way to tap into the vast kinetic energy of the oceans.
A team of researchers has created a microfluidic device that sorts sperm cells based on their motility and ability to swim through narrow channels. This approach shows promising results in increasing the concentration of highly motile sperm, which could enhance the success of assisted reproductive technologies like in vitro fertilization.
A team of researchers led by WPI's Gregory Fischer will test a new minimally invasive approach to treating brain tumors using a robot designed to work within an MRI scanner. The system promises to accurately destroy malignant tissue while leaving surrounding tissue unaffected, offering a significant improvement over current treatments.
A biomedical research team at Worcester Polytechnic Institute will use a new microthread technology to deliver adult stem cells into damaged hearts, aiming to promote muscle regeneration and improve heart function. The five-year project aims to advance cell therapies for people suffering from heart disease.
A team of researchers discovered a chemical compound called filastatin that prevents fungal cells from adhering to surfaces, which is the first step of fungal infections. The compound has shown significant protective effects without toxicity to human tissues.
Worcester Polytechnic Institute professor Diana Lados received the inaugural Constance Tipper Silver Medal for her seminal research and technical accomplishments in metal fracture and fatigue. Her work has worldwide impact and applications in automotive, aerospace, marine, and military industries.
Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute have sequenced the genetic code of Panagrellus redivivus, a tiny nematode also known as the beer-mat worm. The study reveals nearly 24,000 putative genes and sheds light on animal biology, including differences between male and female organisms and unique adaptations of parasitic worms.
Biologist Luis Vidali will explore how components of a cell's internal anatomy organize themselves to grow in a single direction, critical for vital functions in animals, plants, and fungi. He will use genetic techniques, advanced microscopy, and computer simulations to compile a complete picture of the mechanisms involved.
VitaThreads, a WPI startup developing biopolymer microthreads for wound healing and tissue regeneration, has made it to the final four in the Association of University Technology Managers' international business plan contest. The company will present its business plan on March 1 in San Antonio, Texas.
Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute and UMass have developed a whole plant therapy using Artemisia annua, delivering 40 times more artemisinin to the blood than purified artemisinin. This could significantly lower the cost of treating malaria and expand access to antimalarial therapy.
Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute and UMass Amherst studied the transport of bio-molecular complexes along microtubules. They found that motor proteins cooperate to minimize traffic jams, allowing cargos to travel farther before becoming detached.
Undergraduate researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute created engineered surfaces that kill 34% of E.coli bacteria when peptides are lying flat, but 82% when attached vertically. The team developed a technique to monitor AMP attachment and plans to test other materials for optimal antimicrobial activity
Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute will collaborate to develop a wearable, pocket-sized device warning firefighters of toxic gases. The sensor aims to reduce line of duty injuries and deaths caused by hydrogen cyanide and carbon monoxide.
WPI will develop miniaturized wireless sensors to detect early signs of blood loss, and create algorithms to process signals from those sensors to measure seven physiological parameters. The project aims to save the lives of soldiers wounded on the battlefield with wearable sensors and smartphone technologies.
Yan Wang's new flow battery design has a 10-fold increase in energy density and 2.5 times the power density of conventional batteries, making it safer and more cost-effective. The technology will help address renewable energy's Achilles heel by storing and retrieving energy.
The new program will focus on interdisciplinary research, translational engineering, and industrial experiences to prepare students to think like entrepreneurs. Students will participate in curriculum modules, mentored laboratory research projects, and team projects to develop their collaboration and innovation skills.
A WPI research team will conduct fire testing on a five-story building after simulating earthquakes on the nation's largest outdoor shake table. The goal is to gather data that will help engineers design better fire protection systems and provide safer buildings for people and property.
Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) has received a $277,044 grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to develop software tools detecting student engagement in educational software. The project aims to improve learning outcomes by identifying specific types of disengagement.
Professor Chernova will conduct research on general purpose robots capable of adapting to new jobs and responding to human needs. Her system, using crowd-sourcing and active learning, aims to enable robots to operate effectively in natural environments.
Diana Lados, a WPI assistant professor, received a $525,000 NSF CAREER Award to develop new methods and tools for designing materials with confidence. Her goal is to increase the use of light metals in cars, trucks, airplanes, boats, and other transportation applications, reducing fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.