• Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) Postdoctoral Fellow, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California / University of Delaware
• Ph.D., NSERC Alexander Graham Bell Research Scholar, University of Toronto, Canada
• M.Sc. Medical Science (Specialization in Bone and Joint Health), University of Calgary, Canada

I have always been intrigued by the structure-function relationship in cells; specifically, how the organization of actin within cells can determine the way cells behave. The actin cytoskeleton was once thought to be difficult to target in disease. But with the increasing understanding of the diversity of actin networks targeting the actin cytoskeleton is now possible. In the lab, we are focussed on targetting the actin cytoskeleton to prevent and treat diseases such as Osteoarthritis and Cataracts.

Outside of the lab, I enjoy early mornings at Lil’ Bob, discovering new coffee shops,
playing and watching basketball, and most importantly spending time with my family and dog.

B.Eng. Mechanical  Engineering, University of Delaware

Hello, my name is Thomas, and I completed my Bachelors of Mechanical Engineering with a concentration in Biomechanics here at the University of Delaware.

In the Parreno Lab, I am currently investigating the use of 3D bioprinting as a method to create bioengineered cartilage with zonal organization. In addition, I work to utilize 3D printing as a method to develop novel devices to mechanically stimulate cells/tissues.

Hello! My name is Rylee King, and I graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Biology/Psychology with a minor in Forensic Science from Loyola University of Maryland in 2023.
I am super excited to join Parreno Lab again. In the summer of 2022, I joined Team Lens through the Delaware INBRE program. I look forward to continuing my research on the lens and how the actin cytoskeleton plays a role in cataracts.
I enjoy going to the beach, boating, skiing, and playing with my dog in my free time.

Biological Science in the spring of 2023. I am thrilled to be working towards my Masters here at
UD and joining the Parreno Lab as part of Team Cartilage.
Under Team Cartilage, I will be using a DMM model to study how F-actin destabilization leads to
cartilage degeneration and cell apoptosis contributing to the progression of post-traumatic
osteoarthritis.
Outside of the lab I enjoy going to concerts, traveling/exploring new places, and riding my
horses.

University of Delaware. I am currently majoring in Medical Scholars (BA) with minors in Biological Sciences and Psychology on a pre-medicine track!

In Parreno Lab, I am doing my senior thesis on whether TPM3.1 regulates stress fiber formation during lens fibrosis. My project examines how inhibiting TPM3.1 affects cellular changes associated with fibrosis and may help identify potential therapeutic targets.

Outside of the lab, I am involved with HOBY Delaware, where I am Director of Programs, Tri-Beta Bio Honor Society where I am President, a Medical Assistant, and Gujarati Samaj as a Senior Advisor. I also enjoy doing nail art, baking, playing tennis, and taking care of my plants.

My name is John Caputo, and I am a UD alumnus with a bachelor’s in biological sciences (B.S.). I completed my senior thesis in the Parreno Lab, where I investigated how the protein fibronectin influences superficial zone chondrocyte expansion compared to various culture substrates. I continue to work in the lab as a research assistant, contributing to ongoing projects focused on cartilage biology and regenerative medicine. Outside the lab, I volunteer in the Emergency Department and at my local physical therapy office. I also enjoy music, motorcycles, and sneaker collecting.

Hello, I am Samantha Ingerson, a senior Biomedical Engineering student here at the University of Delaware!
In the Parreno Lab I’m working to improve bioengineered cartilage for treating osteoarthritis. Since native articular cartilage exists in a low-oxygen (hypoxic) environment in the body, we’re investigating whether maintaining similar hypoxic conditions during in vitro development enhances the quality of the engineered tissue.
Outside of the lab I enjoy riding and driving horses, gardening, taking care of my small aquarium, traveling, and spending time with my family and friends!

My name is Christian Le, and I am a senior Biomedical Engineering major on the pre-med track at the University of Delaware.

In Parreno Lab, I represent Team Cartilage, where I study how the actin cytoskeleton shapes chondrocyte behavior. My project compares chondrocyte expansion across three substrates to find which best keeps cells dedifferentiated as they grow.

Outside the lab, I train in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, go to the gym, work as a medical assistant, and tutor.

My name is Walter. I ruff walks and lots of treats!

Hi I am Blue! I love snacks, being in your personal space, and destroying fences.