Krishanu Saha

Department of Biomedical Engineering Associate Professor Lab Website ksaha@wisc.edu(608) 316-4313

4164 Discovery Building
330 N Orchard St
Madison, WI 53715-1119

Education

B.S., Cornell University
M.Phil., University of Cambridge (U.K.)
Ph.D., University of California-Berkeley
Postdoctoral, Whitehead Institute-MIT/Harvard University

Stem cell biology, genome engineering and biomaterials expertise to ask unique questions about human biology and disease

We utilize quantitative and bioengineering methods to advance the next generation of cell and gene therapies.

Image for gene editingGene Editing

CRISPR-Cas9, nanoparticle delivery
We develop new tools and insights into the editing of the human genome. Projects include understanding DNA repair and nanoscale assembly of nucleic acids and novel nonviral polymeric delivery agents around protein-based CRISPR systems. We are advancing two projects in the NIH Somatic Cell Genome Editing Consortium.

Image of cells for BiomanufacturingBiomanufacturing

Cell therapy manufacturing
Cells are living drugs that can be difficult to generate, scale-up, and quality control. Projects include monitoring and controlling the heterogeneity during gene modification and scale-up of stem cells and T cell immunotherapies (e.g., CAR T cells). We benefit from collaborations with the national Center for Cell Manufacturing.

Image for disease modelingDisease Modeling

Biomaterials + gene editing to generate new cell models
We are using customized biomaterials and genome editing to generate new human cell-based models of inherited disorders. Projects include correcting mutations within diseased cells and generate isogenic organoids that recapitulate morphogenesis and pathology seen in patients. This project exploits close collaboration with biologists and clinicians at the Waisman Center.

person getting blood drawnScience and Technology Studies

Science Policy/Bioethics
We seek to understand the dynamic and heterogeneous processes by which novel bioengineered objects get embedded into law and policy. Outputs are designed to invoke reflection among practicing scientists on the social commitments behind their choices when engineering human cells, as well as to inform regulations, institutional obligations, and state policy. We leverage collaborations within Holtz STS CenterBio+Society Collaboratory, and Forum on Regenerative Medicine.

Areas of Expertise

  • Personalized Medicine
  • Synthetic & Systems Biology