We were honored to host Prof. Giovanna Brusatin, Full Professor of Bioengineering, Department of Industrial Engineering (DII), University of Padua , Italy, for an inspiring seminar titled: “Biomaterials and Engineered Microenviroments”.

Key topics included the use of YAP/TAZ transcriptional regulators as molecular beacons to monitor mechanical signaling in cells, and the development of chemically-defined biomaterials that can respond to mechanical stimuli. Speakers also highlighted advances in microfabrication techniques, enabling the creation of precise biophysical cues at the microscale, as well as new methods for 3D cell culture and the study of cell mechanics in physiologically relevant environments.

The seminar underscored the growing importance of interdisciplinary approaches in unlocking the complex relationship between mechanical forces and cellular function, with promising implications for regenerative medicine, disease modeling, and drug development.

We sincerely thank Prof. Brusatin for her seminar and for sharing her visionary perspective with us. We look forward to strengthening scientific collaborations in this exciting field.