Café Scientifique: Human Death Ushering in the Dawn of New Life

Natural, but not accidental or traumatic, human organismal death initiates a state within the body wherein tissue components strive to survive by mounting the expression of survival genes. This phenomenon offers an opportunity to gain insight into biological resilience. Of outstanding interest is our observation that in humans such survival response is mounted following “slow” but not “fast” (traumatic) death. Our work helps understand the ways in which cells and tissues, and the genes in them, strive for life even as the body dies.

About Chandan K. Sen

Dr. Chandan K. Sen, PhD, MS, is a distinguished figure in regenerative medicine and wound care technology. He is an elected Fellow of the National Academy of Inventors. Dr. Sen is a University Endowed Professor of Surgery and directs the McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh. He also serves as the Associate Vice Chancellor for Life Sciences Innovation and Commercialization at the University of Pittsburgh.

Dr. Sen’s leadership focuses on advancing health care research vital to Pittsburgh’s future, fostering collaborations with local and national partners, and facilitating the translation of scientific discoveries into practical applications for patients. The emergent field of regenerative medicine has been assigned separate RMAT designation by the US FDA. This multibillion healthcare market is set to rise sharply and Dr. Sen’s efforts are directed at establishing Pittsburgh as a key leader in this new domain.

With a career spanning over two decades, Dr. Sen’s research has been instrumental in developing innovative solutions for tissue injury, regeneration, and infection management. Notable breakthroughs include pioneering technologies such as tissue nanotransfection and electroceutical infection management. His current projects include leading a biomarker study for the NIH-funded Diabetic Foot Consortium and investigating predictive indicators for diabetic foot ulcer recurrence. Dr. Sen’s contributions have earned him prestigious awards, including the 2018 Edison Award for Innovation and the 2016 Frost & Sullivan Award for New Product Innovation. With an extensive publication record (H-index 114) and leadership roles at institutions like Indiana and Ohio State Universities, Dr. Sen continues to drive advancements in regenerative medicine and wound care.