This research investigates the genetic mechanisms underlying polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a condition affecting one in ten women and the leading cause of female infertility. By studying thousands of genetic variants across multiple cell types, the project aims to identify the biological causes of PCOS and develop targeted treatments.

This research investigates the neurological causes of sleep dysfunction in people with myotonic dystrophy, a common multisystem muscular dystrophy. Using mouse models and brain activity monitoring, the study examines how diseased brains lose the ability to compensate for stress, providing new insights into sleep quality, cognition, and disease progression.

This research develops nanobubble-enhanced ultrasound imaging as an accessible alternative to MRI for cancer diagnosis. Tiny gas-filled nanoparticles amplify ultrasound signals and improve image quality, particularly in prostate cancer. The technology could reduce diagnostic delays, lower costs, and provide high-quality medical imaging to more patients worldwide.

This thesis developed multifunctional 3D-printed scaffolds for repairing critical-size mandibular bone defects. Using bioactive ceramics, surface coatings, and prevascularization strategies, it promoted both osteogenesis and angiogenesis. Results show that combining geometry, materials, and biological signals enables synergistic tissue regeneration, offering less-invasive alternatives to autologous bone grafts.

This research engineers immune T cells to better fight ovarian cancer. By modifying them to recognize tumor-specific proteins and resist cancer’s suppressive signals, the project strengthens the body’s natural defenses. The goal is to improve immunotherapy effectiveness, overcome tumor resistance, and increase survival rates for women facing this deadly disease.

This research investigates why blocking an early asthma “alarmin” signal often fails as a treatment. Using mouse models, it reveals that environmental differences—particularly the microbiome—can bypass this signal and still drive asthma. Understanding microbiome health may help predict treatment success and lead to more personalized, effective asthma therapies.

This research investigates why women are more vulnerable to stress-related disorders. Using a mouse model of acute trauma, the study shows that estrogen levels in the hippocampus drive memory disruption after stress. Blocking local estrogen production protects memory, revealing sex-specific mechanisms relevant for targeted treatments.

This talk highlights the importance of science communication. Despite the fear of public speaking, sharing research can directly impact lives. A three-minute research presentation led to a pediatric cancer patient receiving treatment, demonstrating how communicating science beyond the lab can translate into real-world benefits.

Type 1 diabetes affects millions worldwide and often begins in childhood, with no cure or prevention. This research uses early-life blood samples and single-cell immune profiling to identify genetic changes in immune cells before disease onset. The findings reveal new biomarkers that could enable early detection, targeted therapies, and future disease prevention.

This research targets muscle stiffness in children with cerebral palsy by breaking down excess collagen in the muscle’s extracellular matrix. Treating muscle tissue with collagenase reduced stiffness by 50% without weakening muscle strength. The findings offer a promising step toward therapies that improve mobility, reduce pain, and enhance quality of life.