Host-Microbiome Physiology Lab

Advanced in vitro gut models are critical for understanding the molecular mechanisms underpinning the gastrointestinal disorders in a humanized and controlled manner. Using a mesofluidic microphysiological system GuMI, we are establishing a multi-cellular co-culture of gut microbes (in isolation or in consortia), intestinal epithelium, and immune cells. The co-culture system aims to recapitulate the complex multi-cellular, inter-species interactions at the mucosal barrier interface, serving as an useful tool for deciphering the molecular crosstalk of microbiota, host, and their environment. 

There are increasing evidence on the causal relationship between microbial changes and human diseases. Unlike human genome, human microbiota is much more versatile to modulate. We aims to use microbiome engineering strategies to modify the microbial composition toward designed beneficial functions such as production of specific metabolites, reducing endotoxin levels, and training immune cells. We apply a combination of microbial culture-dependent and independent approaches, together with organoids culture and miniature gut models to design and test the effects of bacterial species in isolation and in consortia.  We hope to find the optimal bacterial strains and consortia that have potential to treat diseases and understand the mechanism of actions.