Morehouse College and MONET are joining forces to advance the understanding of hyaluronic acid (HA) and its potential applications. This collaboration will provide invaluable exposure, training, and research opportunities for the next generation of minority chemists.

HA is a naturally occurring molecule with intriguing properties - it can regulate cell migration and respond to oxidative stress. By studying HA's structure and interactions at the atomic level, we aim to uncover new ways to leverage its abilities. For example, can we use HA to direct immune cells or prevent tissue damage? Our partnership unites Morehouse's cohort of passionate STEM educators and students with our center's specialized polymer research capabilities. This synergy will propel discoveries and diversify the scientific workforce.

Together, we will map HA's chemical and thermodynamic characteristics, with and without added chemotactic agents. These agents can potentially "steer" HA behavior. Elucidating how HA's networks change under oxidative conditions could suggest new strategies to mitigate inflammation.

This project exemplifies the power of academic teamwork. Morehouse's excellence in teaching and research perfectly complements our technical expertise. And engaging minority scholars connects underrepresented voices with polymer science innovation.

By pooling our strengths, Morehouse and our center will unravel HA's mysteries on the atomic scale. And translate these fundamental findings into biomedical breakthroughs. Our collaboration represents a bold, inclusive vision for the chemical sciences' future. Let's see where it leads us!

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