MDI Biological Laboratory

Understanding the basic biology of tissue regeneration and aging is essential to developing effective interventions promoting organ repair and healthy lifespan. We use a comparative approach to learn how to stimulate tissue repair and regeneration and delay the onset of age-related diseases.

Iain Drummond, Ph.D.
Director, Kathryn W. Davis Center for Regenerative Biology and Aging

Research

Advancing the Frontiers of Regenerative Medicine and Aging

The MDI Biological Laboratory is a world leader in limb and kidney regeneration. Using the most advanced scientific technology, we are identifying the innate mechanisms that allow damaged tissues, organs and limbs to repair and regenerate. By studying organisms in nature that regenerate naturally such as zebrafish and salamanders, we are decoding the instruction manual for this natural phenomenon. Armed with this knowledge we are developing new strategies to enhance our natural ability to repair or regenerate damaged tissues and slow or reverse the degenerative changes that occur as we age.

James Godwin, Ph.D., Advances Prospect of Regeneration in Humans

In a study that builds on his earlier research, Godwin has identified key elements of regenerative success in the canny axolotl, nature's master of regeneration.

Godwin has found that the origin of pro-regenerative macrophages (a type of white blood cell essential to limb regeneration) in the axolotl is the liver. By providing science with a place to look for pro-regenerative macrophages in humans – the liver, rather than the bone marrow, which is the source of most human macrophages – the finding paves the way for regenerative medicine therapies in humans.

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Research Faculty

Our community of collaborative scientists seek answers to big questions, challenge convention and generate new scientific perspectives that will drive the next big advances in human health.

Research Programs

Our research is broadly focused on discovering the fundamental mechanisms involved in regeneration and aging. This fundamental work is supported in part by state and federal research grants as well as generous philanthropic support from individuals and private foundations.

Scientific Resources

To provide both excellence and efficiency to faculty, students and visiting faculty, MDIBL has on-site access to numerous resources, including bioinformatics and animal cores, and a well-equipped microscopy facility.

Facilities (Research)

The MDI Biological Laboratory offers a wide variety of modern laboratory and conference facilities as well as housing for visiting scientists and students.