Our mission is to extend human healthspan by pioneering discoveries in molecular and cellular mechanisms that regulate the aging process.
We investigate how cellular senescence and other cell fates alter the tissue microenvironment and influence the aging process, the capacity to recover from transient and chronic injury, and the onset and progression of age-related pathology. We aim to understand basic molecular and cellular mechanisms, and target such mechanisms to create therapies that enhance healthy longevity. Our multidisciplinary research spans basic, translational, and clinical approaches.
Explore topics
Animal Models
Multiomics
Clinic Collaboration
Cancer Research
Injury and Healing
Aging Brain
Lifestyle
Sex Disparity
Overview of our research
We employ advanced techniques and cutting-edge technologies to explore the molecular
mechanisms
that
drive cellular aging and associated diseases. Through innovative studies and collaborative
efforts,
we aim to translate our findings into novel therapeutic strategies and improve overall
health
outcomes.
We deal with:
We deal with:
(sc)RNA-seq analysis
UVB
chemotherapy
dietary interventions
fibrosis
hypoxia compounds
immune cells
immune system
liver cancer
melanoma
natural aging
senolytics
sex disparity
CDK4/6
cancer
cell death
chemotherapy
dietary interventions
hypoxia
idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
injury models
ischemic kidney injury
killifish model
non-coding RNA
sex disparity
skin
systemic sclerosis
Our research
Model organisms are key for understanding the impact of cellular senescence and aging mechanisms in physiology and pathology. Our laboratory uses different mouse models to study the function of senescent cells in health and disease, including natural aging and various age-related diseases. Our state-of-the-art facilities ensure precise control over experimental conditions, and our phenotypic unit allows for longitudinal monitoring of various physical and behavioral parameters.
Harnessing the power of multiomics, our research integrates genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and snRNA-seq to uncover novel biomarkers and druggable targets. Our cutting-edge in-house facilities for mass spectrometry and RNA sequencing provide the high-throughput data needed to drive discoveries in cellular senescence. This comprehensive approach accelerates the identification of therapeutic opportunities and enhances our understanding of molecular mechanisms.
Our diverse, multinational team brings together a wealth of expertise to tackle the complexities of cellular senescence and related conditions such as COPD, systemic sclerosis, cancer, and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Through international collaboration and partnerships with clinical departments, we leverage global perspectives and resources to advance research. This collaborative environment fosters innovative solutions and drives progress in the field of molecular biology.
Our research in cancer focuses on understanding the role of cellular senescence in tumor development and progression, including breast cancer, glioblastoma, liver cancer and melanoma. By exploring how senescence affects cancer biology, we aim to uncover new therapeutic strategies, including chemotherapy and targeted therapies, and improve patient outcomes. Our cutting-edge approaches and technologies enable us to address the challenges of cancer treatment and advance the frontiers of oncology.
Our research investigates the intricate role of senescent cells in injury and tissue regeneration under various conditions, such as skin wounds, exposure to environmental pollutants and ischemic events. We examine how these cells impact regeneration by both facilitating and impeding the repair process. By understanding the dual effects of senescence in regenerative contexts, we aim to develop targeted strategies to optimize healing and enhance tissue repair, paving the way for advanced therapeutic approaches.
Our research focuses on the role of microglia in the aging brain, particularly how cellular senescence affects brain function and health. By studying these immune cells, we aim to understand their contribution to age-related neurodegenerative processes. Insights from this work are crucial for developing interventions to preserve cognitive function and combat neurodegenerative diseases associated with aging.
Our observational studies explore the impact of dietary variations and physical activity on aging. By monitoring behaviors and dietary patterns, we aim to understand how lifestyle factors influence cellular senescence and overall health during aging. These insights help to uncover the biological mechanisms underlying healthy aging and guide future research on lifestyle-based strategies for age-related health preservation.
Our research addresses sex disparities in aging and disease, investigating how different biological responses in males and females impact health outcomes. By examining sex-specific variations in cellular senescence, and cancer, we aim to develop personalized therapeutic strategies and enhance our understanding of sex-based differences in disease progression and treatment efficacy.