Research Associate
Bonnie Yeung-Luk
PhD Endocrinology and Cancer Research, University of Hong Kong
My research extensively investigates the molecular and cellular mechanisms governing COPD pathogenesis and progression, with a specific focus on epithelial plasticity influenced by environmental factors, epigenetic reprogramming, and metabolic shifts. My ultimate goal is to identify new biomarkers and therapeutic targets for COPD, with the aim of developing more effective treatments and possibly a cure.
PhD Students
Anuj Lagowala
Program: Environmental Health and Engineering
Research Focus: Microphysiological Models
Carter Swaby
Program: XD Bio: Cross Disciplinary Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences
Research Focus: E-cadherin and Cofilin-1 in lung regeneration and repair
My project examines the role of E-cadherin in alveolar and airway cell fate and proliferation. Specifically, I am interested in the role of mechanotransduction in cell type specification and cell cycle progression. I hope to answer these questions using an array of in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo models.
Ara Wally
Program: Cellular and Molecular Physiology
Kai Wilmsen
Program: Environmental Health and Engineering
Research Focus: Planar Cell Polarity, Microphysiological Models
My project investigates how lung epithelial cells orient themselves within an epithelial sheet. I am particularly interested in the planar cell polarity protein Vangl1 and how changes in abundance and localization of this protein impact barrier integrity and wound healing in the COPD epithelium. I am also optimizing a cigarette smoke exposure model to induce emphysema and other COPD phenotypes in precision-cut lung slices (PCLS) a reliable method to induce emphysema and other COPD associated tissue remodeling in ex vivo tissues.
Undergraduate Students
High School Students
Matthew Luk
C. Milton Wright High School ‘24