Cells within the tissue are genotypically similar but show a chaotic biochemical and physical landscape at any given instant. Why do our cells need this heterogeneity? Is heterogeneity just noise or does this have a physiological relevance? We study the crosstalk between biochemical and physical heterogeneity within epithelial monolayers to understand its role in tissue remodelling and cancer initiation.

"The Cancer's Cradle" evokes the earliest, most formative stages of cancer development, a period often hidden and subtle yet critical for the disease's emergence. It represents the microenvironment where the initial cellular changes occur, the complex interplay of genetic mutations, environmental factors, and cellular signaling that conspire to give rise to malignancy. Like a cradle nurturing a newborn, this environment fosters the nascent cancer cells, providing the necessary conditions for them to grow and evolve. Understanding the specific characteristics of "The Cancer's Cradle"—the unique combination of growth factors, immune responses, and structural support—is crucial for developing effective strategies to prevent cancer initiation

We are developing advanced 3D organotypic models of the lung to investigate the intricate interplay between precancerous fibrotic conditions and the initiation of lung cancer. By recreating the complex microenvironment of the lung within these models, we aim to unravel the mechanisms by which fibrosis contributes to cancer development. These 3D models offer a more physiologically relevant platform than traditional 2D cultures, allowing for the study of cell-matrix interactions, growth factor signaling, and the impact of mechanical forces on cancer initiation

Glioblastoma (GBM), a grade IV brain tumor, often presents without a traceable pre-cancerous stage, leaving its origins shrouded in mystery. To truly understand how this aggressive cancer begins, our research is focused on developing a vascularized cerebral organoid from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), a crucial step towards recreating the complex brain microenvironment in the lab. This innovative approach promises to unlock the secrets of GBM initiation, paving the way for earlier diagnosis and more effective treatments.