Wang Lab

Dr. Wang's research focuses on developing tools and technologies, and therapeutics that integrate molecular, cellular, tissue and biomaterial engineering to promote regeneration and restore function. The Wang Group integrates single cell spatial multi-omics (transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics) to study disease mechanisms and developmental process, and engineers and develops stem cell/gene therapy, extracellular vesicles/nanomedicine, and extracellular matrix/biomaterial scaffolds to treat a wide spectrum of congenital conditions and acquired diseases. Dr. Wang specializes in bringing therapeutics from bench to bedside, through innovative discovery, translational and investigational new drug (IND)-enabling studies, current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) manufacturing, and ultimately clinical trials in both human and companion animal patients. 

Current research projects in the Wang lab include: 

(1) Studying stem cell biology, attachment, migration, differentiation, and secretion

We derive stem cells from various sources and investigate the mechanisms of action behind stem cell benefits, stem cell-extracellular matrix interaction, binding and migration, their differentiation capabilities, and secretion profiles to improve their survival, function and application as regenerative therapeutics for various diseases.

(2) Engineering stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) for tissue regeneration and targeted delivery

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) mediate critical cell-to-cell communication and have emerged as a new class of nanotherapeutics for regenerative medicine. We employ novel culture methods to improve yields of stem cell-derived EVs for translational applications. We engineer EVs to improve their therapeutic functions by loading various cargos and engineering their surface to improve targeting efficiency.

(3) Developing non-viral gene editing strategies for treatment of genetic diseases

Novel gene editing approaches are transforming medicine. We develop novel extracellular vesicle (EV), lipid nanoparticle (LNP), and virus-like particle (VLPs) based technologies with a focus on overcoming hurdles such as limited stability, low endosomal disruption rates, and high toxicity. These non-viral approaches are with high delivery efficiency and specific organ/tissue/cellular tropism and targeting, and low immunogenicity compared to traditional virus-based methods. We are particularly interested in applying these gene editing strategies early, e.g., in utero and early postnatally, to treat early diagnosable genetic diseases. By offering interventions early, there is an opportunity to correct the genetic defect before the onset of the syndrome's manifestations, possibly preventing or significantly reducing the disease's impact on development. 

(4) Applying single-cell spatial multi-omics technologies for enhanced diagnostics, prognosis, and therapies

Single-cell spatial multi-omics technologies have revolutionized our ability to analyze complex biological systems at unprecedented resolution, offering significant potential for enhanced diagnostics, prognosis, and therapies. Single-cell spatial multi-omics integrates various techniques to simultaneously analyze multiple molecular layers (e.g., genome, transcriptome, proteome, epigenome, and metabolome) while preserving spatial information within tissues. We routinely use cutting-edge spatial technologies such as CosMx and MALDI Mass Spectrometry Imaging in the lab. The rich, multi-dimensional data enables more sophisticated predictive models that can provide personalized prognostic information based on a patient's unique cellular and molecular profile and contribute to therapeutic advancements. 

(5) Establishing and using experimental and naturally-occurring disease models to evaluate regenerative products and treatments

Effective research largely depends on the development of successful animal models that can accurately portray the disease processes observed in humans. Our team has been successfully using well-established, surgically- and drug-induced small and large animal models to rigorously test treatment products. In addition, naturally-occurring models, which can more accurately exemplify disease processes are also being developed and applied. These models are extremely beneficial not only for humans but also for veterinary scientific advancement in treatment options. Currently, the Wang group is actively collaborating with the UC Davis Veterinary Medicine team and translating the innovative treatments developed in the lab to treat companion animal patients.

(6) Generating clinical-grade stem cell products and conducting human clinical trials

Our team has developed rigorous protocols for the production of stem cells under current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) at the UC Davis GMP facility, and carried out extensive investigational new drug (IND)-enabling studies required by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for clinical applications. In particular, Dr. Wang has been collaborating with Dr. Diana Farmer for the past decade in developing a stem cell regenerative therapy for spina bifida and the team has recently received approval from the FDA to test a groundbreaking spina bifida treatment that combines surgery with stem cells. The one-of-a-kind treatment, delivered while the baby is still in the mother’s womb, could improve outcomes for children with the birth defect.

(7) Fostering academic innovation and entrepreneurship

Dr. Wang has established the Center for Surgical Bioengineering (CSB) as a hub for innovation and education, by integrating varying disciplines for a robust collaborative environment and by mentoring physicians, residents, scholars, and graduate and medical students to foster future innovation. The CSB is actively engaged with the emerging Aggie Square, the UC Davis - Sacramento Innovation Center. As the UC Davis School of Medicine inaugural Dean's Fellow in Entrepreneurship, Dr. Wang is devoted in expanding our institution’s infrastructure in innovation and entrepreneurship to better link advances in academic research with product and technology development and commercialization, and promoting UC Davis' contribution to socio-economic development.