Our research aims to advance the understanding of human breast stem cell hierarchy and the progression of breast cancer, with a focus on developing therapeutic strategies and preventive measures to improve women's health. Our interests are centered around three key areas:
1. The links between certain types of normal cells and their microenvironment to specific types of breast cancer.

2. Developing models to study differential potential of human breast progenitors.

3. Novel methods to predict the risks of metastatic breast cancer and Identification of therapeutic targets in triple negative breast cancer.

Highlights from our research

Understanding the normal microenvironment is crucial not only for gathering information about cell biology but also for comprehending tumor evolution. We have made significant efforts to generate human-specific model systems that mimic normal and tumor microenvironments in culture by creating lineage-specific cell lines and culture systems. Through these efforts, we have developed various cell lines utilizing normal human breast tissue and cancer biopsies, including estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) cell lines, bipotent progenitors, and spatially distinct basal-myoepithelial cells and fibroblasts, cancer-associated fibroblasts, as well as patient-derived xenograft (PDX) derived cell lines .

Breast Morphogenesis: we study the roles of epithelial cells and fibroblasts using 3D and organoid models to understand the structural integrity and functions of breast tissue.

Tumor initiating cells: we have identified tumor initiating cells or cancer stem cells in ER+ breast cancer and further dissected the molecular mechanims underlying their metastatic features.

Single cell RNA sequencing and stem cell trajactory: we perform scRNAseq of nomal human breast luminal and myeopeithelial lineages to understand the trajectory of stem cell hierarchies and their connection to breast cancer subtypes.

Phytochemicals and signaling pathway:  I have extensive experience studying the effects of phytochemicals on regulating abnormal signaling pathways in breast cancer.

In addition, we leverage state-of-the-art molecular and genomic methologies, humanized mouse models, bioinformatics, and multidisciplinary collaborations to uncover novel markers and therapeutic targets.

Our current research focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying breast cancer progression, particularly triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). We are committed to generating lineage-specific human breast cell lines to establish human-specific model systems. Currently, we are constructing endogenous reporter cell lines using CRISPR/Cas9 technologies. Additionally, we are investigating TGF-β signaling in the aberrant basal state and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in cancer cell differentiation and metastasis. By integrating the latest technologies, we strive to translate our findings into effective treatments and preventive strategies that enhance the quality of life for women.

Teaching experience

I have been teaching medical cell and tissue biology for bachelor of medicine and odontology at University of Copenhagen since 2015. 

My teaching objective is to actively engage with students, facilitating their advancement in scientific knowledge and fostering the development of critical thinking abilities.  I strive to create a classroom environment where students feel encouraged to participate and discussions are welcomed.  Positive feedback from students reassures me that I am successfully achieving my teaching vision.

Research based teaching & Supervising experience

Over the past two decades, I have had the opportunity to supervise a diverse group of students including bachelor’s, master’s and PhD students during their research. I am pleased to share that all the students under my supervision have successfully met the requirements of their theses and have developed a solid foundation of scientific knowledge. Consequently, the research conducted by these students have been published in reputable peer-reviewed journals.