Research Projects
Multi-Omics Profiling of Stem Cell Secretomes for Systemic Rejuvenation


Programme(s) to which this project applies:
☑ MPhil/PhD ☒ MRes[Med] ☑ URIS

Young stem cells naturally secrete a rich and dynamic cocktail of growth factors, cytokines, and exosomes that promote tissue repair and cellular proliferation. However, this regenerative secretome is significantly altered and depleted with age. This project investigates systemic rejuvenators derived from the secretome of young human stem-cell models, including EPSC/TSC and mesenchymal stem cells.

Students involved in this project will collect conditioned media from young stem cell models and perform comprehensive multi-omics analyses (proteomics and transcriptomics) to profile secreted proteins and extracellular vesicles. By comparing these profiles against aged equivalents, we will pinpoint specific factors that are abundant in the young secretome. The identified candidate proteins and peptides will be tested for their therapeutic efficacy. The ultimate goal is to harness these circulating factors—delivered systemically or locally—to reverse aging signals in target tissues and promote robust regeneration.

Dr Q Zhang, School of Biomedical Sciences

Qingqing Zhang is a Research Assistant Professor at the School of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Hong Kong. Qingqing Zhang received a Ph.D. from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the University of Hong Kong. Dr. Zhang did her postdoc training for reproductive ageing and placental ageing at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, HKU.

 

Biography
HKU Scholars Hub
ORCID
zhangqq1@hku.hk

For more information or to express interest for this project, please email the supervisor or the specified contact point in the project description.  Interested candidates are advised to enclose with your email:

  1. your CV,
  2. a brief description of your research interest and experience, and
  3. two reference letters (not required for HKUMed UG students seeking MRes[Med]/URIS projects).

Information on the research programme, funding support and admission documentations could be referenced online at the Research Postgraduate Admissions website. General admission enquiries should be directed to rpgmed@hku.hk.

HKUMed MBBS students interested in the Master of Research in Medicine (MRes[Med]) programme may visit the programme website for more information.  

HKUMed UG students interested in the Undergraduate Research Internship Scheme (URIS) may visit the scheme’s website for more information. 

Research @ School of Biomedical Sciences