Carolina Muñoz

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Carolina Muñoz

Carolina Muñoz

Ph.D. en Ciencias-Biología, Universidad de los Andes, Colombia

Trajectory
Research
Education
Courses
Press

Trajectory

  • carolina

Research

  • The use of bioprinting technology for the development of 3D structures that mimic tissues is a key tool to address basic and applied research questions in areas such as tissue engineering and pharmaceutical molecule discovery. Additionally, other in vitro platforms like cell lines derived from different tissues and 2D cell cultures are also suitable systems for various purposes, ranging from disease modeling to the evaluation of therapeutic drug targets. Furthermore, the identification and isolation of therapeutic molecules are crucial to respond to emerging diseases and even health emergencies. This is why, in this research line and in collaboration with Professor Juan Carlos Cruz, we cover different and innovative biomedical applications, which are based on the study and implementation of cell systems such as:
  1. 3D bioprinting of tissue models using bioinks formulated from synthetic and natural materials, such as those derived from decellularized extracellular matrices.
  2. 2D and 3D cell culture systems as in vitro platforms for the search and selection of therapeutic molecules.
  3. Selection of pharmacological compounds from natural sources and the traditional use of Colombian flora and fauna.
  4. Study of mechanical and chemical signals to control differentiation and fate of human mesenchymal stem cells.
  5. Biocompatibility testing of polymers and nanomaterials for various biomedical applications in regenerative medicine according to ISO 10993 standards.

Education

Postdoctoral Fellowship in Antimicrobial Peptides and Biotechnology

  • Universidad de los Andes
  • Colombia
  • 2017

PhD in Biological Sciences

  • Universidad de los Andes
  • Colombia
  • 2016

Master's Degree in Biological Sciences

  • Universidad de los Andes
  • Colombia
  • 2008

Bachelor's Degree in Biology

  • Pontifical Xavierian University
  • Colombia
  • 2005

Courses

cifuentes   IBIO 2650 - Biomaterials

Biomaterials are synthetic or natural materials used either to enhance or replace tissue or for applications requiring short periods of use. These biomaterials have various applications in the manufacture of artificial blood vessels, heart valves, cosmetic implants, orthopedic joints, dental fillings, and intravenous catheters. Recently, they have also become an essential tool in regenerative medicine and as vehicles for controlled drug delivery. For successful use, biomaterials must meet physical, chemical, and biocompatibility requirements. In this context, this course covers some of the most commonly used biomaterials in human health, their properties, interaction with biological tissues, characterization techniques, and applications.

cifuentes   IBIO 3216 - InVitro Cellular Activity: Experimental Techniques in Tissue Engineering

Theoretical-practical course focused on the fundamentals of cellular and molecular biology techniques using animal cells to solve medical problems. The course will include lectures, practical sessions under the professor's supervision, and student-led seminars. The objective of the course is to provide the necessary tools for students to understand cellular and molecular processes in vitro and to develop basic skills in the handling and characterization of cells in culture. This aims to gather information on cellular activity for biomedical applications such as Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine.

cifuentes   IBIO 3411 - Biotechnology and Biomolecular Engineering

The engineering of biotechnological systems is one of the most promising fields from both scientific and technological perspectives. Modern biotechnology is fundamental to current advanced research as it develops at the intersection of several disciplines such as physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering. It is expected that biotechnological systems will play an important role in facilitating therapeutic strategies for the treatment of some of the most significant diseases of the 21st century, such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and various forms of cancer. Moreover, with the help of biotechnology, it has been possible to develop various biomedical devices and diagnostic tools.

cifuentes  IBIO 3441 - Peptides and Proteins

The design of this course focuses on the study of the molecular architecture of peptides and proteins, understanding their biological activities and functions in different fields of biotechnology. The course explores the structural and functional characteristics of amino acids and proteins from both a basic and applied perspective. Theoretical classes, experimental analysis in laboratory practices, and bioinformatics sessions are developed to integrate all the concepts obtained throughout the course. Finally, the course aims to provide scientific evidence in the study of proteins through a final project that proposes the use of proteins or peptides (native or recombinant) in biotechnological processes or proteins involved in the treatment of a disease.

cifuentes  IBIO 4401 - Advanced Biology

In recent decades, techniques used to manipulate DNA, RNA, and proteins (molecular techniques) have had a great impact on both basic and applied sciences, especially in various medical disciplines. For this reason, this course aims to provide an advanced perspective and the necessary tools for students to understand the techniques currently used and the new technological developments to address scientific questions from a biomedical perspective. This takes into account different areas such as: molecular biology, genetics, proteins, microbiology, parasitology, and immunology.

Some of the most active research areas within the field of biomedical biotechnology currently include the discovery and production of pharmaceutical molecules, gene therapy, pharmacogenomics, and genetic testing for personalized medicine. This course is designed to explore some of the most important developments in these areas, from laboratory research to clinical implementation.

During the last decade, the Colombian government has made significant efforts to shift the country from having an economy purely based on agriculture to one based on technological developments. This course aligns with this challenge by helping prepare a critical mass of engineers and scientists capable of providing solid support in developing strategies to transform the country’s vast but underutilized biological resources into dynamic and sustainable businesses that allow us to compete in regional and global markets.

cifuentes  All full-time professors advise Undergraduate Research Projects, Special Master's Projects, and Master's Theses.

Press