Our vision
We pursue data-driven science to understand the complexity of the brain and diseases that affect the nervous system. We are interested in observable and cell-intrinsic aspects of cell identity from a molecular systems-level perspective.
Our approach
We observe the "phenome" through the lens of a microscope. We utilize various imaging technologies, molecular biology tools, and develop deep learning methods to intergrate multiomic, high-dimensional data. We work closely through clinical collaborations to bridge bench-to-bedside.
Regulators of cell fate & identity
What makes each cell unique? Through the intricate coordiation of biology across scales - genes, organelles, cell types, organs, tissues, and organisms - each cell has a role to play. How do different gene regulatory networks determine the plasticity and commitment of cell fate?
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Neurological diseases of development & aging
Dysregulation of cellular development and loss of cell identity over time results in the manifestation of various neurological diseases. These include brain cancers, rare monogenic disorders, and neurodegeneration. How can we better understand and treat these diseases using a personalized approach?
Phenomic evolution of cell types & function
Throughout history, discovery of fundamental biological processes happened by observing cellular processes across diverse organisms. Among ~8.7 million eukaryotic species, we are only beginning to understand the phenomic diversity at the single-cell level. What can we learn from evolution?
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Single-cell heterogeneity
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Transcription factor networks
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Cellular differentiation & death
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"Pharmacoscopy" (link)
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Adult & pediatric brain cancer
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Rare and neglected neurological diseases
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Nervous system diversity
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Phylophenomics