Papers
1
Total Citations
7
H-Index
1
About
Tam Vu is a biomedical engineer whose research lies at the intersection of biomaterials, tissue engineering, and cellular microenvironments. His most cited work, "Local control of hepatic phenotype with growth factor-encoded surfaces" (2013, 7 citations), introduced a pioneering approach to modulating hepatocyte behavior in vitro. By robotically printing growth factors—specifically hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)—onto collagen-coated glass slides, Vu demonstrated that spatially defined biochemical cues could direct liver cell phenotype expression. This method offers a powerful platform for studying cell-matrix interactions and for engineering functional hepatic tissues, with implications for drug screening and regenerative medicine. While his citation count reflects a focused, early-career impact, the innovation of using printed growth factor gradients to locally control cell fate represents a significant technical contribution to the field. Vu’s work bridges materials science and cell biology, providing tools to dissect how soluble signals, when immobilized, can orchestrate complex tissue behaviors. His research continues to inspire new strategies for creating biomimetic culture systems that better replicate the in vivo liver niche.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1Local control of hepatic phenotype with growth factor-encoded surfaces7 citations · 2013