The Center for Regenerative Nanomedicine (CRN) fosters bold new research in regenerative medicine using nanotechnology strategies. The center is developing exciting programs designed to catalyze innovative research in regenerative nanomedicine, advance translation of technologies developed at Northwestern University, and build broad-based alliances with global leaders in this research arena.
Building on recent advances in treating spinal cord injury and facilitating cartilage regrowth, CRN is especially focused on developing regenerative therapies for the brain, spinal cord, and musculoskeletal tissues, among other targets critical for healthy aging.
CRN brings together experts from chemistry, engineering disciplines, and the biological sciences to accelerate the discovery and translation of innovative regenerative therapies. The center's top priorities include:
We want to introduce materials as ‘drugs’ as opposed to ‘devices’ from the FDA’s perspective. A transition to ‘materials pharmacology’ is necessary to truly advance therapies in regenerative medicine, since cells are naturally surrounded by materials and cannot function without them.”
