STAR Laboratory

Research focus

Organoids are attracting growing attention as advanced in vitro culture systems that can recapitulate organ-specific features through self-organization into three-dimensional structures. These systems enable researchers to model developmental processes and disease progression at the molecular, cellular, and tissue levels. Among various organoid types, those derived from autologous stem cells are considered highly promising cell sources for developing personalized therapeutic and diagnostic strategies.

At the STem cell for Advanced Regeneration Laboratory (STAR Lab), we utilize human liver organoids that closely mimic the structural and functional properties of the liver. By integrating these organoids into diverse research areas, we aim to explore regenerative medicine approaches and advance our understanding of liver biology, disease mechanisms, and personalized treatment development.

Research Focus I

Modeling and Understanding Human Liver Diseases

In recent years, the term non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) has been increasingly regarded as insufficient to fully describe the underlying pathophysiology of the condition. As a result, a new nomenclature—metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH)—has been introduced, reflecting a shift in research perspectives. However, the molecular mechanisms driving MASH and reliable biomarkers for its diagnosis remain largely unknown. Additionally, current disease models for MASH are restricted to murine systems, which poses a major barrier to human-relevant translational research.

Another major liver disease of interest is cholestatic liver disease, a condition caused by disruptions in bile acid synthesis or bile flow due to various etiologies. Impaired bile flow can lead to bile reflux into the bile ducts, surrounding tissues, and bloodstream, potentially resulting in severe complications such as liver cirrhosis.

At STAR Lab, we aim to overcome these limitations by utilizing human hepatocyte-derived organoids to model both MASH and cholestatic liver diseases. Our goal is to unravel their underlying mechanisms, identify diagnostic biomarkers, and pave the way toward the development of novel and effective therapeutic strategies.

Research Focus II

Multi-Scale Organoid Systems and Inter-Organ Communication

Beyond conventional organoid models that enable studies at the intra-cellular scale, recent advances have led to the development of assembloids—multi-lineage organoid systems that support research at the intra-tissue level. Taking this a step further, the emerging field of organoid-on-a-chip technology is gaining significant attention as a platform for investigating intra-organ scale interactions. These microphysiological systems enable dynamic studies of inter-organ communication using organoids derived from multiple tissues.

At STAR Lab, we are particularly focused on exploring the complex interplay between the liver and the gut. Our current projects include investigations into cancer metastasis between these organs, as well as studies on the gut-liver axis and its modulation by the microbiome. By leveraging advanced organoid platforms, we aim to uncover novel insights into inter-organ signaling networks and their roles in health and disease.

Research Focus III

Deriving Functional Liver Organoids from Pluripotent Stem Cells

Organoids generated from adult stem cells or primary cells have gained attention as promising biological models due to their autologous origin and high functional relevance. However, for organs such as the liver, obtaining primary cells often requires invasive procedures, limiting their broader applicability in both research and clinical contexts.

To address these challenges, STAR Lab is focusing on the development of liver organoids derived from pluripotent stem cells (PSCs). Our goal is to replicate the functional benefits of adult stem cell-derived organoids while leveraging the scalability and accessibility of PSCs. Through this approach, we aim to create a robust, reproducible, and patient-independent platform for studying liver development, disease modeling, and therapeutic screening.

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