Research focus
Our laboratory specializes in cutting-edge stem cell and organoid research aimed at advancing precision medicine.
Embryonic stem cell and Organoids for development and regenerative medicine
Our lab leverages the power of embryonic stem cells to develop 3D organoid systems to model early human development. We are particularly interested in generating ectodermal lineages (Skin, Mammary gland, Salivary, Sweat) and recreating complex tissue interactions in a dish. we aim to uncover the mechanisms driving developmental processes and how they go awry in genetic disorders, paving the way for novel therapeutic strategies. We make organoids both from mouse and human embryonic stem cells, induced pluripotent stem cells and adult stem cells.
Learn more about our mouse ES cell-derived mammary organoid generation
Developmental Cell [2024]
Understanding normal development to model cancer progression
There are striking similarities between embryonic development and tumor progression — many of the same cellular programs that drive early development are co-opted by cancer to promote plasticity, invasion, and resistance. We study normal mammary gland development and uncover how these tightly regulated processes are hijacked in breast cancer. By understanding the shared mechanisms between development and disease, we aim to reveal new targets for cancer therapy and gain deeper insight into the origins of tumor heterogeneity.
Functional genomics for cancer precision medicine
As genome sequencing becomes more common, a growing number of genetic variants are classified as "variants of uncertain significance" (VUS) — changes in DNA whose impact on health or disease is unclear. Our lab is developing high-throughput, CRISPR-based functional genomics tools to systematically assess the effects of VUS in relevant cellular and developmental contexts. By integrating genome editing with stem cell and organoid models, we aim to connect genotype to phenotype at scale, advancing our understanding of how genetic variation contributes to human disease.
Learn more about our latest variant classification effort
​
​
​
Nature (2025)