The Guo lab studies vascular wall remodeling and retinal degeneration, with a focus on the roles of histone-code readers and writers in driving cell phenotypic changes. We aim to uncover new therapeutic targets for intervention to avert pathogenic cell states. Our research follows a trajectory from mechanistic investigation to therapeutic translation. For example, we delve into basic research on epigenetic dysregulations underlying post-surgery vascular wall thickening and stenosis. Concurrently, we are pioneering precision delivery strategies for chromatin-modulating “epi-drugs” in collaboration with surgeons and engineers. One innovative approach involves developing bio-adhesive nanoparticles suitable for “painting” on vein grafts to maintain graft patency. Another strategy is tailored for suppressing post-angioplasty restenosis by creating injectable biomembrane-camouflaged delivery systems that can home in on vascular lesions. These initiatives have led to approved and pending patents. Our overarching goal is to tackle challenging medical issues by targeting dysregulated epigenetic mechanisms through seamless transitions from bench discoveries to translational innovations.
Our collaborative team investigates the epigenetic mechanisms underlying vascular stenosis and retinal disease and also develops lesion-targeting nanobased therapeutic delivery strategies, in close partnership with Dr. Craig Kent, MD, at the University of Virginia and Dr. Shaoqin Gong, PhD, at the University of Wisconsin–Madison.
