Sanjay Kumar Research Group

University of California, Berkeley

How do mechanical and biophysical signals from the extracellular matrix regulate tumor invasion and neural stem cell fate? The lab engineers tissue‑mimetic culture platforms and biomaterials that control stiffness, ligand presentation, and topography to probe mechanotransduction. Researchers combine micro/nanofabricated platforms, traction and force measurements, and high‑resolution imaging to identify signaling pathways driving glioblastoma invasion and stem cell neurogenesis. Projects include engineered hyaluronic acid hydrogels and stress‑relaxation matrices to dissect TGF‑β and spectrin‑mediated mechanosensitive responses. Studies use molecular perturbations and multiomic screening to link matrix mechanics to invasion‑relevant biochemical pathways.