The Cheng laboratory explores aspects of tissue engineering technology related to the regeneration of functional bladder tissue.  Clinically, the gold standard for repair of a diseased or injured bladder is enterocystoplasty – i.e. augmentation with a piece of bowel.  While this can restore partial urinary function and prevent more serious disease, patients may have metabolic imbalances and may be required to self-catheterize for the rest of their lives.

Our goal is to develop a tissue engineered replacement for bladder tissue that restores regular urinary function while avoiding the issues associated with bowel augmentation.  Our research interests are detailed in the links to the left.