Research
Mechanobiology in diseases
The liver is an essential metabolic and immune organ. Chronic liver diseases caused by viruses, alcohol, and metabolism affect more than 447 million Chinese residents.
Changes in the extracellular matrix (ECM) are essential manifestations of various liver diseases such as liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer induced by chronic liver diseases.
Extracellular matrix is a dynamically changing tissue scaffold composed of various bioactive molecules secreted by cells and surrounding them in tissues. Dynamic changes in the extracellular matrix's biochemical composition and mechanical mechanics are critical in determining the role and fate of the cells surrounding it.
Our research cross-integrates mechanical mechanics, cell biology, immunology, and other fields. We will use mouse models, 3D hydrogel in vitro culture models, clinical samples combined with atomic force microscopy and rheometer mechanical measurements, and micro-optical imaging to explore liver microenvironment and extracellular matrix changes during chronic liver diseases.
Our research aims to explore the molecular interaction mechanisms between various liver cells and the extracellular matrix using advanced methodologies such as multi-omics, single-cell, and other high-throughput sequencing techniques. Our focus will encompass, but not be limited to, the following research directions:
- Investigate the dynamic alterations of the extracellular matrix in various liver diseases and their impact on disease progression, aiming to identify novel strategies for diagnosing and treating liver diseases.
- Develop 3D hydrogel in vitro culture models with varying mechanical properties and components to study the interactions between different cell types in liver diseases and discover new drug targets for treatment.