Takashi Kaneko

 About Takashi

• Advisor: Javier Read de Alaniz
• Department: Chemistry and Biochemistry
• Campus: UCSB
• BioPACIFIC MIP Research: SET 3 - Functional Biomimics

 What is your research focus?

I am conducting research on using Diels–Alder (DA) chemistry in soft-material fabrication, focusing on photocurable 3D printing. While conventional photocurable 3D printing methods use radical reactions for their fast reactivity, these radical species can be harmful to biological applications and are deactivated in the presence of air. To address this, our group has developed photocontrollable cyclopentadienone-norbornadiene (CPD-NBD) adducts that release cyclopentadiene (Cp), which can be utilized in DA click chemistry. This allows for the formation of polymer networks by clicking with multi-armed maleimides as cross-linkers in water under light irradiation. I aim to apply this DA chemistry to develop a radical/metal-free, air-stable, and mild photo-curable 3D printing technology. Through the BioPACIFIC MIP facility, I have access to various 3D printers, which will enable me to develop a method to control the structure of hydrogels as bioink through 3D printing, mimicking complex natural tissues. Hence, I joined SET 3 - Functional Biomimics, where I could demonstrate digital light processing (DLP), extrusion, and bath printing of my hydrogel materials. Making this DA chemistry accessible in different printing technologies will facilitate the accurate and biocompatible forming of a broader array of materials, thus creating new opportunities in bio-applications.

 What excites you about NSF BioPACIFIC MIP?

As a BioPACIFIC MIP Fellow last year, I was able to establish a strong network with students, post-docs, and professors from UCSB and UCLA. I have initiated collaborations with members of the BioPACIFIC MIP, expanding the potential of my research and enhancing my skills. Additionally, I gained valuable knowledge from training workshops on topics such as presentation design and graphical abstracts. The discussions at the SET3 group provided me with valuable feedback. I also received a travel grant to present my research at a conference, allowing me to showcase the usability of BioPACIFIC MIP to a wider audience. I am excited about the opportunity to further develop my research with the support of BioPACIFIC MIP and to continue expanding my network.