Recipient of the esteemed International Translational Neuroscience Award, Dr. Yan, a pioneer in Brain Tumor research, joins IMCB to establish the NeuroPhenomics Lab. This lab marks a new chapter in our quest for profound biological insights and their translation into biomarkers and therapies.
 
Our journey commences with a deep understanding of Brain Tumor biology, leveraging Dr. Yan's pioneering work on key driver mutations, particularly IDH1 and IDH2, which significantly impact tumorigenesis. NeuroPhenomics Lab is dedicated to advancing research boundaries, uncovering new phenotypic intricacies, and exploring therapeutic potential.
 
In Brain Tumor research, we have historically highlighted the importance of mutations in IDH1 and IDH2, prevalent in aggressive malignant gliomas. These mutations induce neomorphic activities, shaping chromatin and genome methylation through metabolite production. Our work extends beyond this, identifying multiple signature genetic alterations with profound implications for clinical practice and brain tumor therapy.
 
Yet, our vision extends beyond the past. NeuroPhenomics Lab is committed to exploring uncharted territories, investigating the phenotypic complexities of brain tumors and their therapeutic implications. Our research leverages advanced techniques to unravel genetics, epigenetics, and metabolomics at single-cell and spatial levels, providing insights into tumor cell heterogeneity and interactions with the stromal microenvironment.
 
In Neurometabolism, we delve into metabolic communication between brain cells, emphasizing the TCA cycle and the pivotal enzyme IDH. Our investigations encompass metabolite transport across the blood-brain barrier and cellular adaptations to changing metabolite landscapes, revealing metabolic disparities in tumor evolution and neurodegenerative diseases.
 
Our mission is to translate this research into precision therapies, assessing the potential of targeted treatments and redefining the brain's microenvironment. NeuroPhenomics Lab's multifaceted approach incorporates iPSCs, patient-derived organoids, transgenic models, and advanced tools like MSI, MRI, and single-cell/spatial genomics. We pioneer transformative solutions for next-generation neurooncology and neurometabolism, bridging the gap between research and clinical practice.