Current Research and Scholarly Interests
Our laboratory focuses on the mechanism of liver fibrosis in metabolic associated steatohepatitis (MASH), and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We are particularly interested in clinical conditions that are linked to accelerated fibrosis and higher cancer risk such as aging and type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Our goal is to uncover how biomechanical changes in the extracellular matrix (ECM), in particular, viscoelasticity affect mechano-sensation, and how these pathways could ultimately be targeted. We are exploring the changes in collagen architecture and the effects on viscoelasticity, guiding cancer invasion. We are also interested in aging, dysregulation of metabolic pathways and mitochondrial function and how these intersect with matrix changes in MASH and HCC.
Our other major focus is primary sclerosing cholangitis, to define early matrix changes and mechano-sensation. Our ultimate goal is translation and to develop new treatment approaches that reverse fibrosis and improve patient outcomes. To this end we have been pursuing translational efforts, and conducting investigator-initiated clinical trials exploring novel treatment and diagnostic strategies in MASH and PSC.
