Epithelial Stem Cell Biology

Intestinal stem cells (ISCs) are well-characterized adult stem cells. However, their contribution to mucosal immunity is less appreciated. We are now exploring the role of ISCs in innate and adaptive immune responses, which maintain gut homeostasis and, when disrupted, lead to a wide array of diseases. Our toolbox includes in vitro gut organoids, spheroids, and monolayers, as well as in vivo mouse models.

Adult stem cells are critical players in the regeneration of their corresponding tissue. Intestinal stem cells (ISC) can differentiate into all epithelial lineages, including enterocytes, goblet, Paneth, enteroendocrine, tuft, and microfold cells. These cells have multiple tasks in nutrient absorption, mucus secretion, antimicrobial agents production, hormone secretion, and cytokine production. Our group is interested in finding the immunological properties of adult stem cells. These properties may be involved in skewing differentiation patterns, altering communication with the microenvironment, or dictating tissue response to various tissue stresses.