Prabhu Senthil-Kumar, MD

Research Goals

1. Optimize Burn Resuscitation Through Advanced, DatanDriven Modalities
   
   
2. Innovate Skin and Soft Tissue Regeneration Using Next Generation Techniques
   
   
3. Advance Scar Biology, Diagnostics, and Therapeutics
    
4. Accelerate Biophotonic Technologies From Bench to Bedside
    
5. Advance Clinical Research in Burn and Reconstructive Surgery 

Research Focus

1. Burn Resuscitation Optimization and Advanced Physiologic Monitoring 

Our lab is dedicated to improving early burn resuscitation through precision-based strategies and advanced physiologic monitoring. 

A major component of our work is the evaluation of SP 16, an innovative immunomodulatory peptide with potential to decrease total fluid requirements during burn resuscitation and reduce downstream complications such as compartment syndromes. 

We are developing and validating next generation hemodynamic and microcirculatory monitoring technologies, including biophotonic sensors and metabolic markers, to better characterize the dynamic physiology of burn shock. 

Through this work, our goal is to transition from formula-based protocols to real-time, data driven, patient-specific resuscitation frameworks. 

2. Regenerative Approaches for Skin and Soft Tissue Reconstruction 

Our lab focuses on advancing the science and practice of skin and soft tissue regeneration through biologically informed, technology forward innovations: 

We are building a large scale biobank of autologous spray keratinocytes, enabling in depth analyses across diverse populations and identifying how modifiable and non modifiable factors influence cellular behavior and wound outcomes. 

We systematically evaluate skin substitutes to understand differences in vascularization, host response, integration, durability, and patient reported outcomes. 

Additionally, we design and test adjunctive technologies-such as biophysical stimulation, growth factor delivery systems, and optimized scaffolding-to enhance regenerative outcomes and accelerate functional recovery. 

3. Scar Biology, Biomarker Discovery, and Innovative Therapeutics 

Our lab investigates the biological mechanisms and therapeutic opportunities in pathological scarring: 

We are establishing a comprehensive scar tissue biobank, including hypertrophic scar, keloid, donor site, and normal skin samples for transcriptomic, proteomic, metabolomic, and epigenomic profiling. 

Our clinical research efforts compare scar management protocols using quantitative imaging, biomechanical analysis, and standardized patient reported outcome measures to identify best practices. 

We also evaluate novel therapeutic agents, including advanced biologics, targeted molecular therapies, and phototherapies, to improve scar prevention, remodeling, and long term functional results. 

4. Translational Biophotonics for Burns, Scars, and Reconstructive Surgery 

Our lab partners with engineering and imaging experts to accelerate biophotonic technologies from concept to clinical application: 

We collaborate with optical research teams to test diagnostic imaging modalities-including hyperspectral imaging, diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, laser speckle contrast imaging, and optical coherence tomography-for burn depth assessment, scar characterization, and wound evaluation. 

We co develop and validate advanced flap monitoring systems, leveraging near infrared and fluorescence based sensors to enhance early detection of vascular compromise. 

We also conduct translational studies on laser based therapeutic systems aimed at improving scar modulation, pigmentation normalization, and tissue remodeling. 

5. Clinical Outcomes Research in Burn and Reconstructive Surgery 

Our lab conducts broad clinical research aimed at improving evidence based care across the spectrum of burn and reconstructive surgery

We perform systematic reviews and meta analyses to evaluate existing therapies, summarize current evidence, and identify high priority knowledge gaps. 

We lead retrospective and prospective studies to refine treatment protocols and improve outcomes in burn care, breast reconstruction, oncologic reconstruction, and body contouring surgery. 

Through collaborations with industry partners, we participate in industry sponsored clinical trials evaluating cutting edge devices, pharmacologic agents, and regenerative technologies with direct clinical relevance 

Team Members

Lab Members:  

Lais Morandini Carvalho PhD , Research Scientist 

Jinfeng Han , Clinical Research Coordinator CW 

Giorgi Mchedlishvili Clinical Research Coordinator CW 

Collaborators: 

Intramural collaborators: 

Rebecca L. Heise Ph.D, Pulmonary Mechanobiology,  Department of Biomedical Engineering , VCU 

Anuradha Goudavarthy Ph.D , Optical Imaging Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering , VCU 

Extramural Collaborators:      

Dr. Jaishankar Raman  MBBS MMed, FRACS, PhD , Cardiothoracic Surgeon/Reseracher, The University of Melbourne, Australia 

Industry: 

Serphin Pharma ,  Manassas, VA 20109