Juan Rodriguez

Lungs, arteries, and skin are examples of tissues that rely on elasticity to perform their vital functions. One of my primary research interests is understanding how the elastic fibers in these tissues achieve their unique elastic properties and remarkable longevity. In my lab, we focus on the elasticity of zonular fibers, which suspend the lenses inside the eyes. These fibers share many features with elastic fibers in other tissues and are easily accessible through dissection. To investigate their properties, we have developed an apparatus for extracting and mechanically testing these fibers under various physical and chemical conditions. Our current research explores how their elasticity and longevity are influenced by their carbohydrate content. This work is conducted in collaboration with Dr. Steve Bassnett, a professor of ophthalmology at Washington University in St. Louis.

I also collaborate with a research group at the University of Missouri–Kansas City, led by Dr. Cuthbert Simpkins. This collaboration focuses on developing intravenous fluids to manage severe sepsis and blood loss, both resulting in overproduction of nitric oxide that lead to very low blood pressure and impaired oxygen delivery to tissues. Using an apparatus designed by undergraduate students in our lab, we quantify the ability of fluids developed in Dr. Simpkins' lab to absorb and release nitric oxide and oxygen. One of these fluids is currently in a Phase III clinical trial.