A central focus of my research is the osteocyte network, recognizing its critical and underappreciated role in systemic homeostasis. Far from being isolated within the skeletal matrix, this cellular network engages in extensive crosstalk with surrounding vascular and neural architectures. This interplay facilitates complex inter-organ communication, directly influencing the physiology of the brain, heart, and other distant systems. Advancing this paradigm requires overcoming two fundamental technical barriers: achieving high-resolution, macro-scale imaging of deep skeletal tissues (tissue clearing and expansion mciroscopy), and the de novo biofabrication of biomimetic osteocyte networks. Addressing these challenges is central to elucidating the mechanisms of bone-derived systemic regulation.
Research
Pioneer integrative solutions for musculoskeletal aging by bridging fundamental mechanobiology with advanced bioelectronic engineering
Physio-pathology of Osteocyte Networks
Flexible Multimodal Sensors for Musculoskeletal Aging
Smart Restoration and Rehabilitation of Musculoskeletal Aging
Complementing our fundamental investigations into skeletal networks, the translational arm of our laboratory focuses on the design and bio-integration of flexible, multi-modal sensing platforms. These systems are specifically engineered for the precise prognosis and longitudinal monitoring of age-related pathologies, including osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, sarcopenia, and hypertension. By integrating continuous sensor readouts with comprehensive clinical cohort data and advanced AI predictive models, we aim to capture the biomechanical and biochemical manifestations of musculoskeletal and cardiovascular aging. We develop these architectures across multiple form factors—wearable, minimally invasive, and implantable—to ensure high-fidelity, long-term physiological data acquisition with minimal foreign body response.
Addressing the functional decline associated with musculoskeletal aging, our laboratory targets mechanotherapeutic interventions designed for structural regeneration and neuromotor restoration. Our methodologies span multiple biological scales. At the cellular and tissue levels, we utilize ultrasound-mediated electroceuticals, sonogenetics, and advanced tissue engineering to drive regenerative pathways. At the systemic level, we design advanced neuromotor rehabilitation platforms centered on closed-loop wearable artificial muscles. Crucially, the actuation of these bio-robotic systems is dynamically controlled via seamless integration with our multi-modal flexible sensor networks or brain-machine interfaces. This closed-loop architecture enables highly synchronized, physiologically responsive motor assistance, bridging the gap between bioelectronic sensing and functional neuromotor rehabilitation.