The Lab of Physio-Genomics
-Research-

Unveiling the Dynamics of Diets, Genes and Health
through Cutting-Edge Genomic Research

Our research focuses on understanding the complex interactions between Diet, Genes, and Health at the genomic level.

We have two main topics:
1) Understanding the Fundamental Genetic Mechanism of Metabolic Regulation, and
2) Elucidating the Impact of Dietary Factors on Metabolic Regulation.

Ultimately, our goal is to develop novel, personalized preventive and therapeutic approaches,
such as functional foods and nutraceutical drugs, to combat metabolic and related diseases.

To achieve this, we utilize state-of-the-art research techniques, including High-Throughput Screening,
Genetically engineered mice, Next-generation genomic analysis, and Computational analysis tools.

Overall, our research will provide critical and unique insights into the interplay between diet and genetics in health regulation
and propose new methods to treat metabolic diseases.

Deciphering the Fundamental Genetic Mechanism of Metabolic Regulation

Obesity is a leading risk factor for various metabolic disorders, largely influenced by genetic components involved in metabolic regulation. The Iroquois homeobox genes (IRXs) have been shown to play pivotal roles in development and physiology. My research has discovered IRX3 and IRX5 as novel genetic determinants of human obesity, suggesting their critical roles in metabolic regulation and obesity. Building on this foundational finding, we aim to understand the important roles and mechanisms of IRX genes in metabolic regulation and obesity by employing multidisciplinary approaches, including mouse genetics, advanced imaging, and genomic and bioinformatics analysis tools. We believe that our research will provide new insights into the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of obesity and related metabolic diseases.


Elucidating the Impact of Dietary Factors on Metabolic Regulation

As diet and nutrients play critical roles in metabolic and physiological processes, dietary intervention, such as intermittent fasting or ketogenic diet, have profound impacts on metabolism. However, the detailed effects on metabolic diseases and the underlying molecular mechanisms at specific tissue-cellular and genomic levels remain unclear. This is particularly true in understanding how cellular lineage specification and tissue development in metabolic organs are influenced by various nutritional statuses, which is crucial for understanding metabolic disease development. Our research aims to elucidate the effects of dietary interventions on metabolic regulation and the associated genetic mechanisms at the cellular and tissue levels. This study will enhance our fundamental understanding of the impact of dietary intervention on metabolism, specifically at the cellular and genomic levels.

Natural bioactive compounds and their metabolites have been treated in enhancing human health for a long time, and they represents an important source of new lead compounds in drug discovery research. Natural bioactive compounds offering unique advantages over conventional synthetic molecules, characterized by their diversity, safety, accessibility and sustainability making them ideal for long-term health solutions. We utilize High-Throughput Screening, followed by efficacy studies and mechanism analysis in human cell models, transgenic mice and computational analysis to identify novel bioactive compounds. We are committed to optimizing these compounds for maximum effectiveness, ultimately aiming to develop innovative functional foods, drugs, and cosmetics. This effort not only promises safer health management alternatives but also advances the field of nutraceutical science, setting the stage for innovative health and wellness breakthroughs.