Research Interests
My lab utilizes complementary approaches, including genetically engineered mouse models, single-cell sequencing, and organoids, to study 1) critical signaling pathways that regulate the reprogramming and regeneration of intestinal and oral epithelium following acute radiation injury; 2) mechanisms of radiation-induced fibrosis in the intestines and the heart. By understanding the fundamental mechanisms, we aim to develop novel medical countermeasures and predictive biomarkers for radiation-induced normal tissue injury.
Ongoing projects:
1. Regeneration of oral mucosal epithelium in response to severe radiation injury (R01DE033404)
2. Regeneration of intestinal epithelium in response to severe radiation injury (U01AI186969)
3. Epigenetic reprogramming of irradiated intestinal epithelial cells (collaboration with Dr. Christine Eyler)(R21AI193496)
4. Sex difference in radiation-induced intestinal fibrosis (collaboration with Dr. Jatin Roper) (U01AI183940)
5. Mechanisms of radiation-induced cardiac fibrosis and diastolic dysfunction (U01AI189426)