Research Interests:
In the Lin lab, we explore the biology of metabolic signaling with a keen focus on understanding disease mechanisms and developing novel therapies. We leverage the power of genomic and computational tools and genetic models to interrogate the nature of metabolic signaling, inter-organ crosstalk, and tissue microenvironment in health and disease.
Transcriptional programming of tissue metabolism
Metabolic tissues such as adipose tissue, skeletal muscle, and the liver exhibit a remarkable degree of plasticity in nutrient and energy metabolism. We investigate the signaling mechanisms underlying reprogramming of tissue metabolism in response to physiological cues and stress signals, particularly chromatin regulators in the control of metabolic gene programs.
Inter-organ metabolic crosstalk
Inter-organ crosstalk is a fundamental feature of the mammalian metabolic physiology. Cells and tissues are exposed to the ebb and flow of nutrients and hormones and release factors that serve as metabolic signals. By discovering novel secreted hormones, we illustrate an expanding network of endocrine signals that govern whole-body energy metabolism and influence metabolic disease progression.
Tissue microenvironment and metabolic disease
Metabolic tissues contain heterogeneous cell types that act in concert to influence their metabolic functions. We use single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial genomic tools to dissect the transcriptomic signatures of disease-associated reprogramming and intercellular crosstalk via ligands and receptors. We seek to elucidate how remodeling of metabolic tissue microenvironment contributes to type 2 diabetes, fatty liver disease, and liver cancer.
DEI Statement:
We are committed to fostering a lab culture that is collaborative, diverse, and inclusive. We expect each lab member to act with compassion, respect, and professionalism.