Placenta

 Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is characterized by glucose intolerance and hyperglycemia during pregnancy. It poses risks of pregnancy complications to both the mother and the developing fetus. Placenta is a connecting organ between the mother and fetus during pregnancy. Inflammation in the placenta caused by gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) also affects the inflammation-induced senescence of immune cells. By analyzing the role of immune cells involved in the pathological changes (inflammation-induced senescence) in the placenta of mothers with GDM, this study aims to propose a new pathological mechanism of gestational diabetes. Furthermore, the research seeks to identify potential biomarkers for diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis in the future.

Immuno-senescence

 This study investigates blood screening age-specific fluorescent probes, provided by SENPRO, to identify and monitor senescent immune cells in human blood across different age groups. Human blood samples are supplied by S Pohang Hospital. Through this approach, we aim to accurately diagnose immuno-senescence and establish reliable markers of immuno-senescence. This study is expected to enhance the understanding of immune cell aging and be applicable to a variety of diseases. 

Thrombus

 Ischemic stroke is caused by a decrease in blood flow to the brain due to an occlusion of a blood vessel in the brain. Mechanical thrombectomy (EVT) and thrombolytic therapy using tPA have limitations in treating thrombus. As mechanical thrombectomy has advanced, the spatial heterogeneity of thrombus components has gained attention, including fibrin, platelets, red blood cells, von Willebrand Factor (VWF), and neutrophil extracellular traps. Using techniques such as lightsheet microscopy, holotomography, confocal microscopy, and spatial transcriptomics, we have analyzed the composition of human thrombi. This analysis is being utilized to study potential targets for the diagnosis and treatment of stroke. 

Stroke

Stroke remains one of the leading causes of disability and mortality worldwide, underscoring the critical need for early detection and timely intervention to mitigate irreversible neural damage and improve patient outcomes. Collateral circulation has an important impact on prognosis after ischemic stroke by providing replacement blood flow to the injured brain area, reducing neurological damage and promoting recovery. We utilize various stroke-inducing mouse models, such as middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) surgery and photothrombotic stroke, to observe pathological vascular changes and immune alterations under stroke conditions. Furthermore, in collaboration with an ultrasound research laboratory, we conduct studies to observe real-time vascular changes following stroke induction, aiming to develop methods for the early diagnosis of stroke.

Paracrine Role of Adipose Tissue

in Atherosclerosis

 Adipose tissue not only acts as a reservoir for excess energy, but also releases a variety of adipokines, interacts with immune cells to regulate systemic immunity and homeostasis, and contributes to energy homeostasis through thermogenesis. This research focuses on how adipose tissue affects the development and progression of atherosclerosis, and its broader implications for vascular health.

Vagus Nerve Stimulation

 It is well-established that macrophages are the immune cells primarily involved in the development of atherosclerosis. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is known as a therapeutic approach with anti-inflammatory effects. The investigation examines how VNS influences macrophage phenotypes and alters the atherosclerotic phenotype.  This research is collaborated with Innovated Medical Solution Laboratory in POSTECH.

Using Ultrasound to Study Changes in Cells

 Physical stimulation can induce changes in cells. This research uses the physical stimulation of ultrasound to study changes within immune cells through mechanosensitive channels and studies the changes in ions entering through mechanosensitive channels and the genetic changes that occur through them.

Collaboration with