Research interest
Embedded Files
Mechanisms and Therapeutic Targeting of Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD).
This interest focuses on the proposed work investigating how crucial molecular pathways regulate retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) homeostasis, specifically their roles in modulating autophagy, metabolism, and inflammation in the context of Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD). A key goal is to develop novel therapeutic drugs targeting these key regulatory pathways for AMD treatment. This research builds upon preliminary findings showing dysregulation of these important homeostatic mechanisms in AMD patient samples and mouse models.
Molecular Pathogenesis and Novel Drug Development for Synucleinopathies and Demyelinating Diseases (MSA & MS).
This area reflects significant past achievements in understanding diseases like Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) and Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Research includes exploring the roles of Fatty Acid-Binding Proteins (FABPs), such as the FABP7-αSyn-Epsin2 axis in α-synuclein propagation in MSA and the FABP7/FABP5-driven inflammatory cascades in MS. Building on the successful preclinical development of the dual FABP7/5 inhibitor MF6, a potential interest is the discovery and development of new therapeutic strategies for these neurological conditions.
Multi-dimensional Regulation of Progranulin (PGRN) in Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) and Retinal Degeneration.
The lab investigates how PGRN deficiency impacts retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cell function, particularly mitochondrial homeostasis (e.g., via the mTOR-MTFP1 axis) and the triggering of neuroinflammatory responses (e.g., NF-kB activation and C3a-C3aR signaling). A pioneering aspect is the exploration of PGRN's novel nuclear function as a potential transcription factor in RPE cells and its implications for gene regulation. The ultimate aim is to identify early diagnostic biomarkers and innovative therapeutic targets for PGRN-related neurodegenerative diseases like FTD.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse