We are developing new immunotherapies and vaccines by applying the basic principles of pharmaceutics and biomedical engineering.
Engineering Immunity with Synthetic Materials
We are developing new materials that can interact with immune cells and modulate innate and adaptive immune responses. We investigate cellular interactions between biomaterials and the immunological system and identify materials design criteria that dictate the outcome and immune functions. We expect that our research will lead to new technologies that can selectively target immune cells and elicit therapeutic immune responses.
Improving Cancer Immunotherapy
Our immune system can detect and eliminate foreign pathogens by generating systemic immune responses. If we can harness this tremendous potential of our immune system and engineer cancer immunotherapy that can sense and eradicate tumors, this new strategy will bring transformative changes to cancer therapy. We are developing novel drug delivery systems that can deliver a payload to immune and tumor cells, in order to enhance the effector functions of immune cells against cancer. We seek to use this strategy to educate the adaptive immune system and selectively kill and eliminate primary and metastatic tumors.
Immunotherapy Against Autoimmune Diseases
Autoimmune diseases are a group of disorders in which the immune system mistakenly targets and attacks the body’s own cells and tissues, leading to inflammation and damage. These conditions can affect various organs and systems, including the joints, skin, and organs. To combat these diseases, our lab is developing innovative immunotherapies. By harnessing cutting-edge techniques such as novel drug delivery systems, targeted immune cell manipulation, and the development of novel biologics, we aim to create precise and effective treatments that restore immune balance and address the underlying causes of autoimmune diseases, potentially leading to cure against autoimmune diseases.
Modulation of the Gut Microbiome
The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in human health by influencing various physiological processes, including immune response and metabolism. Disruptions in the gut microbiome have been linked to a range of conditions, such as autoimmune diseases, cancer, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). In light of this, our lab is designing novel therapeutics that target the gut microbiome to enhance human health. Through advanced research in microbiome modulation and microbial metabolites, we aim to develop innovative interventions that restore microbial balance, strengthen immune defenses, and alleviate autoimmune diseases, cancer, and IBD, thus offering new avenues for improving overall patient outcomes.
