Ana Salazar Puerta, PhD
Assistant Professor
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Academic contact
Academic information
- Department: Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Research interests
- Regenerative Medicine
- Nerve Repair
- Nanoengineering
- Gene Therapy
- Biomaterials
About
Biography
I am an assistant professor in the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at The Ohio State University College of Medicine, and my research focuses on regenerative medicine, nerve repair, nanoengineering, gene therapy and biomaterials. I specialize in applying quantitative and translational research methods to develop next-generation regenerative therapies that promote tissue repair and functional recovery after injury and disease.
My laboratory combines bioengineering, extracellular vesicle (EV) engineering and biomaterials science to create targeted therapeutic platforms that enhance the body's natural ability to regenerate damaged tissues. A central focus of my research program is developing innovative strategies to improve nerve repair, tissue regeneration and recovery following complex injuries and disease-related tissue damage.
I work closely with clinical partners to identify important challenges in microsurgery, nerve repair and tissue reconstruction, and I translate those needs into practical research solutions. By integrating advanced bioengineering approaches with clinically relevant questions, my lab team seeks to accelerate the development of regenerative therapies that can improve outcomes for patients.
Another important area of my research examines sex-based differences in disease progression and healing. Through this work, I aim to better understand biological mechanisms that influence recovery, and to develop targeted therapeutic approaches that support more personalized and effective regenerative treatments.
My long-term goal is to advance innovative regenerative medicine technologies from the lab toward clinical application, creating therapies that improve tissue regeneration, functional recovery and quality of life for patients affected by injury and disease.
Credentials
Education
- Bachelor of Science
- Universidad EIA, , ZZ, Columbia
- Master of Science - Biomedical Engineering
- The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- Doctorate - Biomedical Engineering
- The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
Research
Research interests
- Regenerative Medicine
- Nerve Repair
- Nanoengineering
- Gene Therapy
- Biomaterials