Research
Research
Cell stiffness is a key indicator of cellular state, influencing processes such as metastasis, infection, and immune activation. Our lab uses advanced techniques—including atomic force microscopy, real-time deformability cytometry, and dielectrophoretic platforms—to measure cell mechanics and identify functional subpopulations. We have shown that changes in stiffness reflect alterations in cytoskeletal organization, migration, and immune activation, underscoring the role of biomechanics in regulating cell behavior. Our goal is to use cell stiffness as a dynamic marker to monitor biological processes such as differentiation and metastasis, and to detect pathological changes. To overcome the limitations of conventional measurements, we are developing an image-based toolbox to quantify viscoelastic properties of individual cells within 3D biomimetic tissues. By integrating molecular biology, imaging, biomaterials engineering, and machine learning, we aim to understand how the extracellular matrix shapes cellular mechanics and functions, with broad applications in diagnostics and therapeutic evaluation.
My research explores how biophysical and biochemical cues regulate the fate of immune cells, with a particular focus on the emerging concept of “mechanomemory.” I investigate how factors such as topology, topography, stiffness, flow, and matrix composition shape immune cell behavior within engineered 3D microenvironments. Mechanomemory refers to the ability of immune cells to “remember” previous mechanical environments, influencing their future responses. We have observed this phenomenon in dendritic cells, but its underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. By uncovering how mechanical memory drives immune cell fate decisions, this work aims to inform the design of immune-modulating biomaterials for applications in regenerative medicine, cancer therapy, and tissue engineering. It also offers new insights into how changes in tissue mechanics contribute to immune dysfunction in disease.
My research focuses on developing a miniaturized lymph node model to advance biomedical research and therapeutic applications. Motivated by the need for rapid and safe responses to emerging infectious diseases, this system aims to enable on-demand production of neutralizing antibodies without relying on convalescent donors. By integrating biomedical engineering and lab-on-chip technologies, the miniaturized lymph node mimics the complexity of immune microenvironments. This platform can generate targeted antibodies efficiently and safely, offering a powerful alternative to conventional convalescent therapy. Beyond infectious disease applications, this system also holds promise for drug development, vaccine testing, and disease modeling. By replicating key cellular and molecular interactions, it provides a physiologically relevant platform to study immune function, disease progression, and treatment responses.
My research explores how microgravity affects cellular and tissue functions, with a particular focus on the immune system. Using biomimetic models and microphysiological systems, we aim to uncover how spaceflight conditions influence immune regulation and overall physiological health. These insights are critical for safeguarding astronaut health and ensuring the success of long-duration space missions.The impact of this research extends well beyond space exploration. Studying how microgravity alters immune function provides valuable clues about age-related immune decline on Earth, informing the development of new therapeutic strategies. This work also contributes to regenerative medicine, as understanding how cells respond to reduced mechanical forces can inspire innovative tissue engineering approaches and countermeasures to mitigate physiological deterioration in space and on Earth.