The Rahbar Lab focuses on translational traumatic injury research and aim to understand the highly dynamic and complex responses to traumatic injuries by taking an integrated approach.
By studying the hemodynamic, coagulopathic, metabolic, genomic and inflammatory responses longitudinally after injury in both human and tissue engineered organoids, we are able to develop new and improved algorithms for patient management and care.
In addition, we work to develop new diagnostic tools and/or medical devices to improve current resuscitation and treatment strategies for the critically injured. The results of our research are used to inform improved designs of medical devices and technologies that improve patients’ lives, while decreasing the societal and economical costs of trauma.
Research Highlights
Our lab has a biobank of plasma, DNA and urine samples from various trauma populations. We prospectively collect samples from trauma patients under our approved IRB protocols and use these samples for the discovery of new biomarkers.
A virtually painless way to collect blood from youth
Our lab works with the Hemolink(TM) device developed by TASSO, Inc. to collect blood samples from youth populations. We have been testing this device for blood collection from youth concussion cases to allow for rapid detection of concussion biomarkers.
Solid State Nanopores for HA Detection
Hyaluronan (also known as hyaluronic acid, HA) is a key component of the endothelial glycocalyx layer and has been shown to be shed into the blood stream following trauma. Both the size of HA and amount are important in regulating key inflammatory responses. Low MW HA are considered to be pro-inflammatory whereas high MW (>500kDa) are not. Our lab, in collaboration with Dr. Adam Hall, have developed a new method to quantify both HA size and amount using solid state nanopores.
Our lab developed a relatively rapid method to remove hemolysis from RBC units using zinc beads.
Identifying the optimal order of blood transfusions for treating hemorrhage
Our group works with PROMMTT and PROPPR data to identify the optimal order of blood transfusion delivery to promote hemostasis and patient survival post-hemorrhage.
CFD modeling of Endovascular Variable Control (EVAC) devices during severe hemorrhage
Using computational finite element approaches, we simulate hemodynamics of the aortafemoral region to evaluate EVAC design and performance.
Our lab has developed 3D liver organoids, using primary human hepatocytes, to investigate gene-diet interactions. We are interested in knowing how PUFA-rich diets influence inflammation, particularly post-trauma.
Development of computational fluid dynamic (CFD) models for hemorrhagic shock
We are exploring CFD modeling approaches to studying hemorrhagic shock and efficacy of endovascular hemorrhage control devices, in collaboration with Dr. Timothy Williams.
Investigating FADS and ELVOL gene-diet interactions in critically injured patients
We are determining how genetic variants impact an individual’s response to immune-modulatory diets and their overall inflammatory status following injury.
Investigating FADS and ELOVL gene-diet interactions in liver organoids
We develop novel 3D liver organoids to study lipid and PUFA metabolism.
Biomarkers for Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injury
Our lab collects blood, saliva and urine biospecimens to discover novel biomarkers for diagnosing and/or managing treatment after TBI.