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R. Vago September 2002 curriculum vitae and list of publications


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R. Vago September 2002
CURRICULUM VITAE AND LIST OF PUBLICATIONS



  • Personal Details

Name: Razi Vago

Date and place of birth: May 12, 1957, Haifa, Israel

Military service: 1976-1979, Israeli Navy, 1979-1982, Prime Minister Office

Work contact details: The Institute for Applied Biosciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, 84105 Israel

Laboratory: 07-647 71 96; Office: 07-6477181

Fax: 07-6472983; E-mail: rvago@bgumail.bgu.ac.il

Cellular: 054-512771

Web sites: http://www.bgu.ac.il/IAR/

Home contact details: 6 Hianshuf Street, Lehavim 85338, Israel



Home phone: +972 7 6512692 E-mail: r_vago@netvision.net.il


  • Education


B.Sc. 1982 - 1985

Bar-Ilan University, Department of Life Sciences, Ramat-Gan, Israel


M.Sc. 1986 - 1988

Bar-Ilan University, Department of Life Sciences, Ramat-Gan, Israel. Advisor, Prof. Zvy Dubinsky Thesis: Mutual relationships


in the biological association between the hydrocoral Millepora dichotoma and the Cirripede Savignum milleporum.


Ph.D. 1989 - 1994

Bar-Ilan University, Department of Life Sciences, Ramat-Gan, Israel. Advisor, Prof. Zvy Dubinsky Thesis: Environmental factors and the dynamics of growth processes in hermatypic organisms.





  • Employment History

October 1, 2000 - present

Lecturer

Department of Biotechnology Engineering

The Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
March 1, 1998 - present

Research Scientist

The Institute for Applied Biosciences

The Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel


1995 - 1997

Post-doctoral Fellow at the Australian Institute of Marine Science

(AIMS), Australia



Membership in professional/scientific societies


  • 1999- present, International Society of Regenerative Medicine

  • 1999- present, International Society for Biomaterials

  • 1994- present, International Society for Reef Studies

  • 1970- present, The Israel Federation for Underwater Activities




  • Educational Activities


Courses taught
1. Electron Microscopy and Cell Biology - graduate and undergraduate program

Bar-Ilan University - laboratory Instructor


2. Introduction to Oceanography and Limnology - under graduate program

Bar-Ilan University - field and laboratory instructor


3. Invertebrate Zoology - graduate program - Bar-Ilan University

Laboratory Instructor


4. Biological problems in the Red Sea - graduate program - Bar-Ilan University

Instructor


5. Oceanographic Methods - graduate program - Interuniversity Institute of Eilat

Instructor

6. Invertebrates (introduction to biotechnology b) - graduate program

Program of Biotechnology Engineering

Lecturer
7. Selected topics of coral-reefs - graduate program - Interuniversity Institute of Eilat

Interuniversity course – course coordinator


8. Marine biotechnology - under graduate and graduate program -

Program of Biotechnology Engineering

Lecturer (yearly course, with Prof. Shoshana Arad)

Research Students

Year of Graduation: 2001

Name of student: Mrs. Liat Gotlibe (Abramovitz)

Topic: Skeletal properties and effects of ocean warming on development of reef building corals.

Degree: M.Sc.

University: Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel

Co-supervisor: Dr. D. Katoshevski
Year of Graduation: in process

Name of student: Mrs. Liat Gotlibe (Abramovitz)

Topic: A study of ex-vivo ossification (to be finalize)

Degree: Ph.D.

University: Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel

Co-supervisor: to be detrimined

Year of Graduation: in process

Name of student: Ms. Galia Pasternak

Topic: Interactions Between Reef-Building Corals and Metal Substrates in Seawater.

Degree: Degree: MSc.

University: Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel

Co-supervisor: Prof. D. Itzak

Year of Graduation: in process

Name of student: Mr. David Dahan

Topic: Mechanical and Structural Properties of Biomaterials of Maine Origin.

Degree: Degree: MSc.

University: Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel

Co-supervisor: Dr. Y. Golan


Year of Graduation: in process

Name of student: Mr. Doron Nave

Topic: To be determined

Degree: Degree: MSc.

University: Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel

Co-supervisor: Prof. Salman (Zamik) Rosenwaks


Year of Graduation: in process

Name of student: Ms. Galia Shternhal

Topic: Behavior of galvanic couples in coral reef environment

Degree: Degree: MSc.

University: Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel

Co-supervisor: Prof. D. Itzak

(Consultant)

Research Students (Basic Sciences)

Year 1998-1999

Name of student: Dr. Nissim Ohana

Topic: Corals as Bone Substitutes

Degree: Basic Science Program

University: Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel


Year 1999-2001

Name of student: Dr. Andrai Podolski

Topic: Biomatrix for Osteogenic Cells

Degree: Basic Science Program

University: Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
Year 1999-present

Name of student: Dr. Yaron Weisell

Topic: Biomatrix for Controlled Drug Delivery

Degree: Basic Science Program

University: Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel

Co-supervisors: Prof. Jean-Paul Lellouche and Dr. Amnon Sintov


Year 1999-2001

Name of student: Dr. Alex Bunin

Topic: Restoration of Osteochonral Defects

Degree: Basic Science Program

University: Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel

Co-supervisors: Dr. D. Plotquin


Research Students (engineering project)
1. Year 1999-2000

Name of student: Mr. Eizik Sakis

Topic: Application of Marine Carbonate Materials in Knee Reconstruction.

Degree: 4th year engineering project

University: Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel

Co-supervisors: Dr. D. Plotquin, Prof. Y. Zaritzki


2. Year 1999-2000

Name of student: Mr. Gie Ben-Ezra

Topic: Application of Marine Carbonate Materials in Knee Reconstruction.

Degree: 4th year engineering project

University: Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel

Co-supervisors: Dr. D. Plotquin, Prof. Y. Zaritzki
3. Year 2000-2001

Name of student: Ms. Sharon Krombain

Topic: Effect of Various Metallic Surface Roughness on Reef Biofouling.

Degree: 4th year engineering project

University: Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel

Co-supervisor: Prof. D. Itzak


4. Year 2000-2001

Name of student: Ms. Avital Levi

Topic: XRD crystalline characterization in coralline biomaterials .

Degree: 4th year engineering project

University: Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel

Co-supervisor: Dr. Y. Golan


5. Year 2000-2001

Name of student: Mrs. Dorit Barak

Topic: Effect of Various Biocidic Compounds on Reef Biofouling.

Degree: 4th year engineering project

University: Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel

Co-supervisor: Prof. D. Itzak


6. Year 2001-2002

Name of student: Mr. Yuval Natan

Topic: Models of Carbonate Materials in Knee Reconstruction.

7. Degree: 4th year engineering project

University: Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel

Co-supervisors: Dr. D. Plotquin,


8. Year 2001-2002

Name of student: Ms. Vered Blubshtein

Topic: Models of Carbonate Materials in Knee Reconstruction.

Degree: 4th year engineering project

University: Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel

Co-supervisors: Dr. D. Plotquin


10. Year 2002-in process

Name of student: Ms. Lilach Segal

Topic: Effects of Surface parameters and MSC's.

Degree: 4th year engineering project

University: Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel

Co-supervisors: ----


11. Year 2002-in process

Name of student: Mr. Elad Zmora

Topic: Effects of Surface parameters and MSC's.

Degree: 4th year engineering project

University: Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel

Co-supervisors: ----


12. Year 2002-in process

Name of student: Ms. Iris

Topic: Modulation and inter-conversion of pluripotent mesenchymal stem cells into adipocytes/osteoblasts

Degree: 4th year engineering project

University: Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel

Co-supervisors: Dr. R. Birk




  • Awards, Citations, Honors, Fellowships

Honors, Citation Awards

  • 1991: Bar Ilan University, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics: Dean’s Award in Life Sciences

  • 1992: Bar Ilan University, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics: Dean’s Award in Life Sciences

  • 1993: Bar Ilan University, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics: Dean’s Award in Life Sciences

  • 1998-1999: Koret Foundation Award

  • 1999-2000: Koret Foundation Award

  • 1999-2000: Ministry of Science Fellowship-Award

  • 2002 Best paper award at the ISM conference, Eilat, May 2002

  • 2002 Best paper award at the Israel Vacuum Soc. annual meeting, Tel-Aviv, September 2002.



Fellowships

  • 1995-1997: The Australian Institute of Marine Science Post-doctoral Fellowship Award

  • 1998: The Institute for Applied Biosciences, the Ben-Gurion University of the Negev

  • 1999-2000: Ministry of Science Fellow-Award.




  • Scientific Publications



Refereed articles and refereed letters in scientific journals


  1. Vago. R, Shai, Y., Ben-Zion M., Dubinsky Z and Achituv Y. (1994). Computerized tomography and image analysis, a tool for examining the skeletal characteristics of reef-building organisms. Limnol. Oceangr. 39: 448-452.

  2. Vago. R, Vago, E., Achituv, Y., Ben-Zion M and Dubinsky Z. (1994). A non-destructive method for monitoring coral growth affected by anthropogenic and natural long term changes. Bull. Mar. Sci. 55: 126-132.

  3. Stambler. N, Cox, E. F and Vago R. (1994). The effect of ammonium enrichment on respiration, zooxanthellar densities and pigment concentration in two species of Hawaiian corals. Pac. Sci. 45: 284-290.

  4. Vago. R, Gill, E and Collingwood J. (1997). Laser measurements of coral growth. Nature (COVER) 386: 30-31.

  5. Vago. R, Ben-Zion, M., Dubinsky, Z., Genin A and Kizner Z. (1997). Growth of Stylphora pistillata, Acropora variabilis and Millepora dichotoma in the Red Sea. Limnol. Oceanogr. 42: 1814-1819.

  6. Vago. R, Achituv, Y., Vaky, L., Dubinsky, Z and Kizner Z. (1998). Colony architecture of Millepora dichotoma. J. Exp. Mar. Biol. Ecol 224: 225-235.

  7. *Ben-Nissan. B, Russell, J. J., Hu, J., .Milev, A., Green, D., Vago, R., Walsh W and Conway R. M. (2000). Comparison of surface morphology in sol-gel treated coralline hydroxyapatite structures for implant purposes. Key Eng. Mat. 192-1: 959-962.

  8. *Hu. J, Fraser, R., Russell, J.J., Ben-Nissan, B and Vago R. (2000). Australian coral as a biomaterial: Characteristics, J. Mat. Sci. Tech. 16: 6, 591-595.

  9. *Hu. J, Russell J.J., Ben-Nissan B and Vago R. (2001). Production and analysis of hydroxyapatite from Australian corals via hydrothermal process J. of Mat. Sci. lett. 20: 85-87.

  10. *Vago. R, Pasternak, G and Itzhak D. (2001). Aluminium metallic substrate induces colossal biominralization of the calcareous Hydrocoral Millepora dichotoma. J. of Mat. Sci. Lett. 20: 1049-1050.

  11. Kizner. Z, Vago, R and Vaky L. (2001). Stable states and phase transitions in coral growth. Ecol. Model. 141: 227-239.

  12. *Vago. R, Plotquin D., Bunin A., Sinelnikov I., Itzhak D, Atar D. (2002). Hard tissue remodeling from biofabrication of coralline biomaterials. J Biochem. Bioph. Meth. 50: 253-259.

  13. *Gottlib-Abramovitch. L, Katoshevski, D and Vago, R. (2002). A tank system for studying the effect of temperature on reef corals. J Biochem. Bioph. Meth. 50: 245-259.

  14. *Pasternak. G, Vago, R and Itzhak D. (2002). Interactions between various metals and the hydrozoan millepora dichotoma in coral-reef environment. NACE International 2181-2189.

  15. *Ben-Nissan. B, Milev. A., Green. D., Conway. M., Vago. R and Walsh W. (2002). Mechanical properties and characterisation of sol-gel coated coralline hydroxyapatite. Key Eng Mat 218: 379-382.




  1. *Dahan. D, Vago R and Golan Y. ( 2002). Skeletal architecture and microstructure of the reef building coral Fungia simplex. Mat. Sci. Eng. C (in press)

  2. *Gottlib-Abramovitch. L, Katoshevski, D and Vago, R. Physiological response of Stylophora pistillata and Milepora dichotoma to seawater temperature elevation. Bull. of Mar. Sci. (in press)

  3. Vago. R, Mizrahi, L., Ben-Zion M and Dubinsky Z. Effects of light intensity on carbonic anhydrase activity and growth of zooxanthellate cnidarians: (Eilat Red Sea) J. Exp. Mar. Biol. Ecol. (accepted).


Proceedings

  1. Vago. R and Turak E. (1995). Renovation of coral-reefs: a recolonization technique. Proc. Ecol. Sys. Enhanc. Tech. II Japan 879-884.

  2. Chemodanov. A, Vago, R and Kizner. Z. (1996). Seasonal variations in the skeletal structure of Millepora dichotoma.

Proc. of the 6th Int. Conf. of the Israel Soc. for Ecol. and Environ. Quality Sci. Jerusalem.

  1. Hu. J, Russell, J.J., Vago, R and Ben-Nissan B. (1999). Production and analysis of hydroxyapatite derived from Australian corals for artificial eyes. Proceedings of the AINSE99-NTA/VSA, 11th Conference, Lucas Heights, 24-25th November 59-61

  2. Hu. J, Russell, J.J., Milev, A., Vago, R and Ben-Nissan, B. (2000). Conversion of high strength Australian coral to hydroxyapatite. In Transactions of Society for Biomaterials. Proc. Of the 26th Annual meeting with 32nd International Biomaterial Symposium, Hawaii, USA. 1349.

  3. Ben-Nissan. B, Russell, J.J., Hu, J., Milev, A., Green, D., Vago, R., Walsh W and Conway, R.M. (2000). Modification of hydrothermally treated coral in biomedical applications. Transactions of the Austceram 2000 International Conference, (eds.) B. Ben-Nissan and D A. Taylor 235.

  4. Ben-Nissan. B, Milev, A., Green, D., Conway, M., Vago, R and Walsh W. (2001). Mechanical properties and characterisation of sol-gel coated coralline hydroxyapatite. ", In Bioceramics 14, Trans Tech Publications, Calif.

7. Barnes. D.J and Vago R. On coral calcification and coral growth. Proc. 1th Int. Cal. Conf. (accepted plenary-invited, reviewed).
Scientific reports and technical papers

  1. Technical report: Vago, R. Achituv Y and Dubinsky, Z. (1994). Israel Nature Reserves Authority: Establishment of baseline database and formulation of a monitoring program for assessment of the well being of the coral reef in the Elat Coral Reserve.

  2. Technical report: Vago, R. (1997). Under water laser apparatus for high resolution measurements of coral growth AIMS technical report.

  3. Research report: Vago, R. (1999). Biomatrix for hard tissue engineering. Scientific progress report for the Israeli Minstry of Science.



  • Lectures and Presentations at Meetings and Invited Seminars not followed by Published Proceedings

Invited plenary lectures at conferences/meetings

1. Vago R. (1998).

Coral growth-the view behind the laser 1th Int. Cal. Conf. Eilat,

2. *Vago R and Aatar D (2000)

Hard tissue remodeling from biofabrication of coralline biomaterials

2000 Era of Biotechnology, Beer-Sheva, October (2000).



Presentation of papers presented at conferences/meetings


  1. Vago. R and Achituv Y. (1990). The association between the hydrocoral Millepora dichotoma and the coral inhabiting barnacle Savignum milleporum. Joint U.S. Israel workshop, Symbioses: From molecular biology to ecosystem function.

  2. Vago. R and Achituv Y. (1991). The role of convergent morphological properties in the hydrocoral Millepora dichotoma life history. Proc. of XII-th conference of the Interuniversity Institute (The H. Steintz Marine Biol Laboratory Eilat).

  3. Dubinsky. Z, Kizner, Z., Chemodanov A., Vago, R., Thieberger, Y., Rahav, O., Ben-Zion, M. and Achituv Y. (1995). Development of non-destructive tools for long term monitoring of the “well being” of corals. The ecosystem of the Gulf of Aqaba in relation to the enhanced economical development and the Peace Process II, Eilat.

  4. Achituv. Y, Vago, R and Kizner, Z. (1995). Millepora dichotoma as an indicator for monitoring human impacts on coral reefs The ecosystem of the Gulf of Aqaba in relation to the enhanced economical development and the Peace Process II.(Eila

  5. Vago. R, Kizner, Z., Ben-Zion, M., Achituv, Y., Jokiel, P. L., Te, F. and Dubinsky, Z. (1995). The role of environmental agents, in shaping the architectural configuration of hermatypic cnidarians. 6th International Conference on Coelenterate Biology. Amsterdam.

  6. Kizner. Z, Chemodanov A. and Vago, R. (1996). Seasonality in growth of Millepora dichotoma (Gulf of Elat, Red Sea). 8th Int. Coral Reef Symp. Panama.

  7. Dubinsky. Z, Achituv, Y., Ben-Zion, M., Chemodanov A., Eden, N, Kizner, Z., Malkin, A., Rahav, O., Rotem, E., Thieberger, Y and Vago, R. (1996).What do corals tell us about their lives?: corals as environmental biosensors. The ecosystem of the Gulf of Aqaba in relation to the enhanced economical development and the Peace Process III, Eilat.

  8. Kizner. Z, Chemodanov, A and Vago. R. (1996). Seasonal variations in weight and skeletal structure of Mllepora dichotoma. The ecosystem of the Gulf of Aqaba in relation to the enhanced economical development and the Peace Process III, Eilat

  9. Ohana. N and Vago R. (1999). Bone tissue response to porous and mesoporous coral-derived grafts: A long-term in vivo study in dog femors. The Annual meeting of the Israeli Orthopedic Association, Tel-Aviv.
  10. Hu. J.J., Russell, J., Vago R and Ben-Nissan B. (1999). Production and analysis of Hydroxyapatite from Australian corals via hydrothermal Process. AINSE99 NTA/VSA, 11th AINSE Conference Lucas Heights, 24-26 November.


  11. Hu. J, Russell, J.J., Vago, R and Ben-Nissan, B. (1999. Australian coral for artificial eye, In UTS/RNSH (1999), XVIth Scientific Research Meeting RNSH/UTS, ", 16-17th November P28, 41.

  12. Hu. J, Russell, J.J., Vago, R., Rubel, A and Ben-Nissan B. (1999). Production and Characterisation of Hydroxyapatite Derived from Australian Corals for Artificial Eyes", The 9th Israel Materials Engineering Conference – IMEC-9 TECHNION, Haifa, Israel 139.

  13. *Hu. J, Russell, J.J., Milev, A., Vago, R and Ben-Nissan, B. (2000). Conversion of high strength Australian coral to Hydroxyapatite", in Transactions of Society for Biomaterials 26th Annual meeting with 32nd International Biomaterial Symposium, Hawaii, USA 1349.

  14. *Ben-Nissan. B, Russell, J. J., Hu, J., .Milev, A., Green, D., Vago, R., Walsh W and Conway R. M. (2000). Comparison of surface morphology in Sol-Gel treated coralline hydroxyapatite structures for implant purposes",Bioceramics 13.

  15. *Plotquin D, Vago, R., Bunin, A., Sinelnikov, I and Atar D. (2001). Osteochondral remodeling using biofabricated coralline biomaterials”. The 17th international Jerusalem symposium on sport medicine. Jerusalem, Israel.

  16. *Dahan. D, Vago, R and Golan Y. ( 2001). Skeletal architecture and microstructure of the reef building coral Fungia sp. the 35th annual meeting of the Israel society for microscopy , Technion - Israel Institute of Technology Haifa.

  17. *Pasternak G, Vago, R and Itzhak D. (2002). Interactions between various metals and the hydrozoan millepora dichotoma in coral-reef environment. The International Corrosion Society conference, Danver, USA.

  18. *Itzhak D, Vago, R., Greenberg, T., Pasternak, G., Sternhell, G and P, D, Taylor. (2002). Marine Biofouling and Corrosion Behavior in a Red Sea Coral Reef Environment. The International Corrosion Society conference, Danver, USA.

  19. *Sternhell G, Itzhak, D and Vago R. (2002). Galvanic Effects of Various Metallic Couples on Marine Biofouling in Coral Reef Environment The International Corrosion Society conference, Danver, USA.

  20. *Ben-Nissan B, Vago, R and Walsh B (2002). Biomimetic conversion of red sea coralline structures for implant purposes Austracerm, Canberra, Australia.

  21. *Nave D, Vago, R., Rosenwaks, S and Bar, I. .(2002). Characterization of CaCO3 Coatings Obtained by Laser Ablation of Marine Origin Material. 21ST Annual Conference and Technical Workshop of the Israel Vacuum Society (IVS), Tel-Aviv Israel

  22. *Vago, R and Gottlib-Abramovitch L. (2002). Ex-vivo bone bioengineering. Tissue Engineering Science: Critical Elements in the Research and Development Continuum, Mykonos, Greece,

  23. *Gottlib-Abramovitch L and Vago R. (2002). Biofabricated coralline biomaterials as scaffolds for ex-vivo bone bioengineering Israel Society for Microscopy (ISM) conference, Eilat.


  • Patents

1. 1997: Vago R and Collingwood, J


An apparatus for measuring the growth of living organisms,

Lodged in Australia


2. 1997: Vago R


Shaped products or structures for medical or related purposes

Lodged internationally

3. * 2001: Vago R and Beyar M Tissue Growth Stimulating System

Lodged in Israel



Research Grants


  1. 1991-1993: Israel Nature Reserves Authority: Establishment of baseline database and formulation of a monitoring program for assessment of the well being of the coral reef in the Eilat Coral Reserve ($75000, project with Y. Achituv and Z. Dubinsky).

  2. 1994-1995: Israel Ministry of Environmental Protection: Monitoring of coral reefs by video recording and computerized analysis. ($20000, with Z. Dubinsky).

  3. 1998: The Ben-Gurion University, The Institute for Applied Biosciences, laboratory equipment funding ($10000)

  4. 1998-1999: The Koret Foundation Grant Award ($15000)

  5. 1999-2000: The Koret Foundation Grant Award ($15000)

  6. 1999-2000: Ministry of Science Grant Award – Biomatrix for hard tissue remodeling . ($50000)

  7. 1999-2000: Project funded by a startup company ($30000)

  8. 2000-2001: Magneton project with biotech company ($560000)

  9. 2000-2001: DSBG (with Prof. D. Itzhak) Anti fouling technology ($15000)

  10. 2001-2003: Canada-Israel science foundation, - Bone regeneration enhancement using a combination of novel biomatrices and growth promoting factors. ($174000)

  11. 2002-2006: Binational Science Foundation (BSF) – Bioengineering of Articular Cartilage ($229000)



  • Synopsis of Research

The research interests are in the area of: biomaterials, biomneralization, tissue engineering, and cell material interface.

My research focuses on a combination of biotechnological and echophysiological approaches to study the biological basis of hard tissue development. In this framework, I have undertaken an investigation of the potential uses of marine carbonate materials in the aragonite crystalline form for biomedical applications, particularly for hard tissue repair and engineering.

The human body has a considerable capacity for regeneration. Some tissues are regenerated continually throughout life and others such as bone and muscle regenerate in response to injury, whereas others regenerate following stimulation of reserve stem or progenitor cells residing in the bone marrow. However, neither bone nor muscle will regenerate across a gap.

Our group is actively taking a part in the new field Regenerative Biology”, a new approach for tissue restoration, in which cells are to form a new tissue following implementation of bio-artificial tissue constructed in vivo.

Marine organisms from different phyla developed a wide variety of skeletal structures with different skeletal morphologies and crystalline structures. Our study is driven by the phenomena that create these natural composite and in vivo models that has demonstrated some possible strategies for biomedical utilization of carbonate derivatives.



Being interdisciplinary in nature, the research is being conducted in a close collaboration with researchers of different institutions in the U.S.A, Australia, Canada and in Israel.
Biomaterials and tissue engineering: Using in vivo models, we compared the biological response of bone tissue to two different natural coral skeletal materials having different morphological geometric and mechanical properties - the conventional porous material and a new coral species recently identified by us. We grafted allograft, porous (PTS) and dense (VAR) coralline material into dog femurs and then monitored the biocompatabilty and degradation of the implanted materials. Both corals derivatives were well incorporated into the living bone, with the soft coral being totally replaced by new bone. No side effects or abnormalities in bone healing were detected during 14 months of follow-up. However, VAR, with its unique mechanical properties has an advantage in that, it can be machined to closely fit to the bone dimensions at the implantation site and is therefore particularly suitable for grafting to load-bearing bones. (research grants – No. 3,4,5, publication – abs. No. 10, paper – No. 8).
Biomineralization: A new approach in to the study is to combine field observations and experiments with high-resolution laboratory manipulations. Under laboratory conditions coral colonies are exposed to graded combinations of elevated temperatures and water-flow fields in a computerized twin-tank system. Three coral species were cultured in the Red Sea as micro-colonies. The method facilitates the application of advanced instrumentation for skeletal and physiological analysis. The properties to be studied are, changes in respiration, photosynthesis calcification, growth rates, changes in micro skeletal architecture as well as algal population dynamics, and onset of bleaching. A mathematical model will be constructed to simulate the effects of fluctuations in temperature and flow field on the heat exchange between the aquatic medium and the coral. The model will constitute a tool for predicting the physiological trends to expect as a result of changes in the temperature of the sea in specific areas. The study will also contribute to a better understanding of coral calcification and the effects of environmental factors on these processes. (research grants – No. 3,4 papers No. -13, 14).
Biomaterials: The issue of biocompatibility is implanted in the orthopedic industry because the only truly biocompatible material is one, which is made by the body itself, and any other material instigates a biological reaction. Hydroxyapatite is the major component of the human bone and teeth and is a useful material for bone graft and other biomedical applications. Hydroxyapatite can be produced many different ways including conversion from coralline materials. The porous skeleton of a coral animal is made of calcium carbonate and can be hydrothermally converted to hydroxyapatite under certain favourable conditions. A porous implant structure allows bone ingrowth into the implant and generates excellent mechanical bonding. A controlled pore size distribution as well as a high degree of pore interconnectivity are desirable, hence a precise knowledge of the mechanical properties and structural morpholopy is pertinent.

Optical microscope and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) were utilised to examine four different specimens. Mechanical testing involved a standard 4-point bend test according to ASTM C1161 standard. Phase and elemental analysis were carried out by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF). Thermal stability was carried out using thermo-gravimetric and differential thermal analyses (TGA/DTA).The results revealed that of the four species studied here the most beneficial for implant use is the ‘New Species’ for both in its pore size and higher strength. (research grants – No. 3,4,5 papers No. –7,8,9).


Tissue engineering: This study is directed mainly at developing “smart biomaterials” and novel methods for osteogenic tissue engineering. The approach combines the use of preshaped, natural carbonate derivatives as 3-D matrices for culturing bone-forming osteoblasts under controlled laboratory conditions. Emphasis is being places on 3-D cell seeding, the development of calcified components and the improvement of the structural and mechanical properties of the biomaterial. The work is being carried out on two levels: 1) field and laboratory control of the skeletal properties of the living organism and 2) physical and chemical modifications of the carbonate derivatives. The research also facilitates a better understanding of the interactions between calcifying cells and biologically fabricated matrices. (research grants – No. 3,4,5, 6 publications – papers No. 7).
Osteochondral remodeling: Biotechnical and biomedical approaches were combined in an attempt to identify potential uses of biofabricated marine carbonate materials in biomedical applications, particularly as biomatrices for remodeling bone and cartilage tissue. After grafting it is desirable for bone ingrowth to proceed as quickly as possible, because the strength of the implanted region depends on a good mechanical bond forming between the implant and surrounding regions in the body. Ingrowth can take place as a result of growth of tissue and cells into the implanted porous material, or it may be promoted by transplanting cells seeded onto such a material. The rate at which ingrowth occurs is dependent on many factors, including pore size and the interconnectivity of the implanted structure. In vivo graftings into osteochondral defects demonstrated that our biofabricated porous material is highly biocompatible with cartilage and bone tissue. The biofabricated matrix was well incorporated into the biphasic osteochondral area. Resorption was followed by bone and cartilage formation, and after four months the biomaterial had been replaced by new tissue. Ossification was induced and enhanced without introduction of additional factors. We believe that this is the first time that such biofabricated materials have been used for biomedical purposes. In face of the obvious environmental disadvantages of harvesting from limited natural resources, we propose the use of bioengineered coralline and other materials such as those cultured by our group under field and laboratory conditions as a possible biomatrix for hard tissue remodeling. (research grants – No. 3,4,5, 6 publications – papers No. 8,12,13).
Interactions between marine organisms and metal substrates: The study focuses on the interactions between metal substrates and marine fouling, in particularly the hydrozoan Millepora dichotoma. In collaboration with Prof. D. Itzhak, the effects of the substrate on the skeletal properties of colonies and the effects of the biogenic settlement on corrosion behavior of metals are being investigated. It is described for the first time that aluminum substrate initiate and exert colossal biomineralization of this species. This interface biology research leads to development of new biomimetic materials having enhanced bioactivity for hard tissue engineering. (research grant No. 9 publications – paper No. 10).
Laser Manipulation of Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Biomatrix Interaction: One of the main challenges in treating skeletal deficiencies is developing biomatrices of synthetic or natural biomaterials that promote the migration, proliferation and differentiation of bone cells. It is expected that pursuing a cogent experimental approach, which addresses cell-material interaction and modulation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) will foster the field of biomedical engineering. In this study we propose to test the hypothesis that ossification can be promoted by combined use of (a) novel biomatrices of marine origin and ablated biomatrices coated with calcium carbonate (CaC) particles, (b) MSCs, and (c) low-level laser irradiation. We will focus on the development of novel biomatrices, the establishment of a cell-material system for studying in vitro ossification, and determination of the potential for modulating MSC-osteogenic phenotypes. The co-interaction between the novel biomatrices and low-level laser irradiation will also be investigated. To assess the mechanisms behind enhanced bioactivity as a function of the investigated parameters, a variety of physical, chemical and molecular analyses will be performed. The main significance of the proposed study lies in the fact that it represents the first attempt to explore the effects of the size, morphology and microstructure of ablated CaC particles on biological responses of MSCs and bone growth. Achieving an understanding of the biomechanism responsible for enhanced bioactivity is an essential step towards optimization of bone scaffolds and the development of new methods of obtaining ex vivo ossification. This study will also shed light over the growing debate regarding the pluripotency of MSCs

  • Present Academic Activities

Research in Progress
Subject: The biological basis of the stimulation of hard tissue regeneration by coral derived microporous matrices.

Expected project end:



Subject: Biomatrix for bone tissue engineering.



Expected project end: 2005
Subject: Skeletal properties and effects of ocean warming on development of reef-building corals.

Other participants: Dr. D. Katoshevski, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel

Expected project end: 2002


Subject: Interaction between various metals and calcareous organisms.

Other participants: Prof. D. Itzak, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel

Expected project end: 2003



Subject: Modulation and inter-conversion of pluripotent mesenchymal stem cells

Other participants: Dr. R. Birk Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel

Expected project end: 2005



Subject: Bone regeneration enhancement

Other participants: Prof. M. Tabrizian, Canada

Expected project end: 2005



Subject: Bioengineering of articular cartilage

Other participants: Prof. K. Athanasiou USA

Expected project end: 2006



Subject: Coralline Hydroxyapatite

Other participants: Prof. B. Ben-Nissan, Australia

Expected project end: 2005



Subject: Thick layered devices for stimulation of ex-vivo ossification

Other participants: Dr. Y. Hormadely and D. Itzhak Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel

Expected project end: 2005



Subject: A study on coral bleaching and mass mortality at the Seychelles: global changes or natural phenomena.

Other participants: Prof Z. Dubinsky, Dr. N. Furman, Dr. N. Stambler and Dr. D. Iluz, Bar-Ilan , University Ramt-Gan , Israel

Expected project end: 2002



Subject: Biologically controlled mineralization: effects of substrate on colony properties and skeletal fabrication.

Other participants: Prof. D. Itzhak Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel

Expected project end: 2003



Subject: Application of marine carbonate materials in osteochondral reconstruction.

Other participants: Dr. D. Plotquin, Prof. Soroka Medical Centre, Beer-Sheva, Israel, Prof. Y. Zaritzki, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel

Expected project end: 2004



Subject: Laser manipulation of mesenchymal stem cell-biomatrix interaction

Other participants: Prof. Z . Rosenwaks and Prof. I. Bar. Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel

Expected project end: 2007

Books and articles to be published


  1. Vago. R, Itzhak, D and Hormadely Y. Ex-vivo ossification: thick layered device stimulates ossification

  2. Vago. R, Biactive carbonate deriviatives scaffolds of marine origin for ex-vivo bone remodeling

  3. Nave D, Vago, R., Rosenwaks, S and Bar, I. .(2002). Characterization of CaCO3 Coatings Obtained by Laser Ablation of Marine Origin Material




  1. Birk R, Vago, R and Gottlib-Abramovitch L. Modulation and inter-conversion of pluripotent mesenchymal stem cells

  2. Vago. R, Pasternak, G and Itzhak, D. Development of Millepora dichotoma: a model of complex biological guided mineralization.

  3. Vago. R and Barnes D. J. Lunar rhythmus in coral growth.

  4. Vago. R, Furman, N., Iluz, D., Stambler, N and Dubinsky, Z. Corals Find a Refuge from Bleaching in a Seychelles Lagoon.

  5. Vago. R, Early Skeletal Development of Porites lutea and Millepora dichotoma.

  6. Vago. R, Mizrahi, L., Ben-Zion M and Dubinsky, Z. In situ Measurements of Light Effects on Production and Respiration in Reef Corals (Gulf of Eilat, Red Sea) (in prep).

  7. Vago. R, Ben-Zion M., Te, F., Jokiel.P. L. and Dubinsky, Z. Stony coral plasticity: a mechanism to optimize light harvesting.




  • Additional Information


International courses
1991

Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology, Summer Program "Diffusion Barriers and Carbon Limitation in Reef Corals".


1992

FAO/IOC/UNEP Training workshop on the statistical treatment and interpretation of marine community data. Israel, 14-19 June 1992.


2001

Adavnced tissue engineering course and meeting. Rice University, Huston, Texas

Research cruises
1995-1997

Chief Scientist on numerous cruises to the Great Barrier Reef.





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