Sil Gussenhoven

Sil Gussenhoven is a Doctoral Candidate (PhD) in the Cell-Matrix Interactions in Cardiovascular Tissue Regeneration group, supervised by Full Professor Carlijn Bouten, in which his research focuses on the Holland Hybrid Heart. Sil completed both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees Biomedical Engineering at the Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), including an internship period abroad at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS). He specialized in the field of tissue engineering and mechanobiology, developing a keen interest in the intricate interplay between cells and their environment. His previous research involved creating 3D cardiac tissue models, utilizing techniques like 3D bioprinting, to unravel the cardiac regenerative potential upon mechanical guidance.

In the Holland Hybrid Heart consortium, Sil's work is concentrated on the blood-contacting inner lining of the soft robotic heart, a critical component that interacts continuously with blood and triggers the body's immune response upon implantation. Preventing thrombogenic events, which are fatal in cardiovascular devices, and guiding immunity are key objectives of his research. The aim of his project is therefore to engineer a hemocompatible and immunomodulatory inner lining of the soft robotic heart by developing biomaterials that mimic the endocardium, the heart's natural hemocompatible barrier. His approach includes using principles of material-driven in situ tissue engineering and creating nature-inspired antifouling topographical coatings. A significant aspect of his work is the engineering of advanced coatings designed to endure the vigorous, dynamic conditions of the soft robotic heart, moving beyond the limitations of the static, short-lived coatings currently used in cardiovascular applications.