Our Research

The Wosczyna Lab investigates the molecular and cellular mechanisms of tissue maintenance and regeneration and of global metabolism. We are specifically interested in the role of mesenchymal progenitor/stem cells in these processes, which we model in skeletal muscle and adipose tissue.

We have previously demonstrated that mesenchymal stromal cells in skeletal muscle are robust mediators of atypical tissue infiltration and aim to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of the associated detrimental fate transitions. Furthermore, we have demonstrated that these same cells in their progenitor state are beneficial for the tissues in which they reside and aim to decipher the cellular and molecular mechanisms required for this beneficial influence.

By using progressive mouse models of disease coupled with advanced in vivo and molecular assays, we aim to continue to define the impact of progenitor cell state on tissue health. Ultimately, we aim to harness this knowledge to better maintain and regenerate tissue in pathological and aged scenarios.