Advanced Disease Models

MEDICAL BIOTECHNOLOGY

Research Interests

Stem cells; Metabolic liver diseases; Cancer; Obesity; Bioengineering; Drug repositioning; Tissue regeneration; Organoids

Description of Research

Our research is centred on unravelling the intricate interplay between metabolic diseases and tumour development, particularly within the context of the tumour microenvironment and epithelial stem cell niches. Chronic liver diseases and liver cancer represent a major and rapidly growing global health burden, with a disproportionate impact on low- and middle-income countries, where metabolic disorders, late diagnosis, and limited access to effective therapies contribute to high morbidity and mortality.

Leveraging multidisciplinary expertise in cancer biology, stem cell biology, and bioengineering, we investigate the fundamental mechanisms that underlie tumour initiation, progression, and impaired tissue regeneration in chronic liver diseases. A key focus of our work is the biology of tissue-resident epithelial stem cells and their context-dependent behaviour during injury and disease, with the long-term goal of informing regenerative medicine strategies with broad translational relevance.

To address these questions, we adopt an integrative experimental approach combining diet-induced and genetically engineered mouse models with advanced tissue engineering techniques and 3D organotypic culture systems. We design sophisticated disease models that closely recapitulate the cellular, mechanical, and signalling complexity of human liver tissues, enabling high-fidelity simulation of disease processes and the identification of conserved drivers of disease progression that are relevant across diverse populations.

In parallel, the laboratory is actively engaged in capacity-building initiatives, including hands-on training support and collaborations on organoid technologies for researchers from low- and middle-income countries. Through these activities, we aim to facilitate the dissemination of robust and scalable experimental platforms, supporting the global advancement of liver disease research and regenerative medicine.

Recent Publications