Heather Fahlenkamp, Ph.D.

Professor and Head

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Education

Ph.D., Chemical Engineering
Oklahoma State University, 2003

 

M.S., Bioengineering
University of Utah, 2000

 

B.S., Chemical Engineering
Oklahoma State University, 1997

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Professional Experience

2003 – 2006 Research Scientist at VaxDesign Corporation (now part of Sanofi Pasteur, the vaccines division of the Sanofi-Aventis Group)

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Professional Honors and Affiliations

NSF CAREER Award

OKBio Researcher Recognition Award

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Major Areas of Interest

Tissue Engineering: Advanced Tissue-Equivalent Models to Study Inflammation Associated with Vascular Complications, Allergens, and Infectious Agents.

Drug Delivery: Nanoparticles and Biomembranes for Controlled Delivery

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Recent Research Activities

An Advanced 3D Human Tissue-Engineered Lung Model to Study Immune Responses to Infectious Agents

We have created a 3D tissue-engineered lung model comprised of primary human cells that exhibits a normal immunological response against infectious agents, such as the influenza virus.  The model has been used to determine the mechanisms that can lead to an excessive inflammatory response and ensuing complications.

 

A Novel Ophthalmic Drug Delivery System for the Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy

To improve sustained delivery of drugs to the eye, we have designed a novel system that includes drug-loaded nanoparticles suspended within a thin membrane that can be attached to a standard commercial-grade contact lens for support. The lens system will provide constant contact with the eye’s surface and the particles will supply a continuous release of medication, resulting in more drug reaching the target.