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Our Science Initiatives

At the forefront of biomedical innovation, our stem cell research spans three key areas:

Disease Research:
We investigate how diseases develop at the cellular level, using stem cells to model conditions, explore disease mechanisms, and develop new therapies.

Developmental Biology:
By studying how stem cells contribute to human development, we gain critical insights into the processes that guide cell growth and differentiation.

Regenerative Medicine:
Harnessing the power of stem cells, we aim to repair or replace damaged tissues and organs—paving the way for transformative treatments.

baguado@ucsd.edu

Brian Aguado, PhD

Assistant Professor, Bioengineering

We seek to use precision biomaterials as tools to determine sex-specific mechanisms of cardiovascular disease progression at multiple length scales. We are also interested in characterizing sex-specific biology associated with cancer metastasis, stem cell biology, and inflammation.

eahrens@ucsd.edu

Eric Ahrens, PhD

Professor, Radiology

malperin@ucsd.edu

Marianna Alperin, MD

Professor, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences

We use a multi-prong approach to study the impact of pregnancy, birth injury, and aging on the structure, function, plasticity , and regenerative potential of the female pelvic soft tissues.

dcheresh@ucsd.edu

David Cheresh, PhD

Distinguished Professor, Pathology

Our research focuses on the overarching theme of how cell surface receptors mediate an invasive phenotype by promoting adaptations that support survival in the face of stress.

kchristman@ucsd.edu

Karen Christman, PhD

Professor, Bioengineering

Our lab's goal is to develop minimally invasive, biomaterials based therapies for myocardial infarction, heart failure, and peripheral artery disease.

hcookanderson@ucsd.edu

Heidi Cook-Anderson, MD, PhD

Assistant Professor, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences

Our lab is working to understand the gene regulatory mechanisms that orchestrate early developmental events.

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