Description Children suffering from spina bifida, a developmental disorder, often have underdeveloped bladders, which can cause urine leakage and kidney damage. To alleviate these symptoms, surgical reconstruction of the bladder using a piece of intestine is often needed. At Ann and Robert H. Lurie Childrens Hospital of Chicago, Bury and his colleagues have been looking for a better surgical approach. In place of intestine, a thin biological material called small intestinal submucosa (SIS) is coupled with a gel-like material called peptide amphiphile (PA), which promotes healing. In this image, a rat bladder is stained to show the incorporation of the SIS (dark blue) in the bladder wall, while smooth muscle cells (red) move into the regenerating area.
Science In Society Northwestern University's Recent Work
About the artist
Science In Society Northwestern University Member Since November 2013 Artist Statement Science in Society is a Northwestern University research center dedicated to science outreach and public engagement.
These images stem from cutting-edge research on campus, winning our annual Scientific Images Contest which goes on display in galleries across Chicago.
Through partnerships with schools and community groups, we train Northwestern researchers to share their expertise and creativity in a community centered way. Sales from these images goes to support our education and outreach activities, connecting researchers to the wider community.