Gaining fundamental knowledge in human oligodendrocyte development.
The vast majority of our knowledge in oligodendrocyte biology is derived from mouse models. Despite significant advances in mouse oligodendrocyte knowledge, no effective therapies have been translated to human oligodendrocyte disorders. To close the knowledge gap, our lab uses transcriptomic analysis comparing mouse and human oligodendrocytes to identify human specific oligodendrocyte populations. Obtained information will be used to study the function of human oligodendrocytes using imaging, genetics, and electrophysiological techniques.
Engineering transplantable human oligodendrocytes.
Oligodendrocytes are considered a great candidate for cell-based transplantation therapy because of their ability to regenerate the damaged myelin. However, no method exists to generate autologous, transplantable human oligodendrocytes at high quantity and safety. Our lab will establish an alternative method for human oligodendrocyte production by direct lineage conversion of human dermal fibroblasts (skin cells) using transcription factor-based cellular reprogramming. We will optimize the engineering protocol to generate highly efficient, transplantable oligodendrocytes for clinical application. Furthermore, we will use the engineered oligodendrocyte system to develop a cost- and time- effective drug screening platform for oligodendrocyte disorders. The platform will fast-forward disease modeling, drug discovery, and personalized treatment for oligodendrocyte disorders.
Read More › about Generation of functional human oligodendrocytes from dermal fibroblasts by direct lineage conversion
Read More › about Hiroko Nobuta awarded Busch Biomedical Grant
Read More › about Conversations with CABM Director: An interview with Dr. Hiroko Nobuta
Read More › about CABM welcomes Hiroko Nobuta as a resident faculty member