18 Jul 2024
Dr. Yong Shen, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science at Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, has been awarded the prestigious 2024 Jiangsu Science and Technology Programme-Fundamental Research Plan-Young-Scholar Programme. His project will explore the potential of epigenetic reprogramming in combating aging and delaying age-related diseases.
Aging is a complex biological process involving the gradual decline of cellular functions and the continuous deterioration of tissue integrity. This process not only increases susceptibility to various chronic diseases but also leads to a decline in the body's regenerative capacity. Recent research suggests that epigenetic reprogramming could become a potential strategy for anti-aging and delaying age-related diseases.
Epigenetic reprogramming is a novel anti-aging strategy
Dr. Shen's research will focus on utilizing CRISPR activation technology to develop precise and effective interventions by activating endogenous reprogramming genes within cells. This exciting project aims to mitigate age-related cellular functional decline and promote healthy aging.
As the population is aging, age-related diseases become increasingly more prominent and therefore, research on cellular rejuvenation and delaying aging has garnered significant attention. By using CRISPR to activate endogenous reprogramming genes and achieve cellular reprogramming to reverse aging, Dr. Shen’s research will provide innovative solutions for human health and longevity, promote medical advancements, reduce healthcare burdens, and support sustainable economic and social development.
About Dr Yong Shen:
Dr. Shen obtained his Ph.D. in Genetics and Genomics and his Master's degree in Public Health Policy and Management from the University of Florida. He then conducted postdoctoral research in human genetics at Harvard Medical School and the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard.
His primary research focuses on utilizing gene editing technology to explore the regulatory mechanisms of hemoglobin gene expression in the human blood system and pioneering gene therapy methods for fatal hereditary anemias such as sickle cell anemia and thalassemia. His research findings have been published in prestigious scientific journals such as Nature Communications, PLOS Genetics, and Molecular and Cellular Biology.
Dr. Shen also has extensive experience in innovation and entrepreneurship, aiming to transform cutting-edge biomedical technologies to address the most challenging human health issues, including congenital genetic diseases, cancer, and aging. Since joining Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University in 2023, Dr. Shen has established the Stem Cell Molecular Laboratory and received robust support and ample research resources. Presently he is in the process of building and supervising a large and strong team of highly qualified Masters and especially PhD students from China and across the world.
If you are interested to join Dr. Shen’s highly selective and competitive research team, please feel free to contact him at: Yong.Shen@xjtlu.edu.cn
18 Jul 2024