Calcium homeostasis and mucosal pathology

Zhengfeng YANG’s Lab focuses on the mechanisms and relevant functions of calcium homeostasis in mucosal pathology, including pulmonary fibrosis, colorectal carcinogenesis, and liver transplantation. He revealed the importance of Lgr4 and PLC1 in modulation of intracellular calcium signals and osteoclast differentiation. He also identified TMEM178 as a brake for STIM1 overactivation, which limits osteoclastogenesis and inflammatory responses of macrophages. Recently, the group has identified paraquat as the first agonist for STIM1 and promotes extracellular calcium entry. Currently, he investigates how calcium homeostasis modulates cell metabolism and cell fate decisions, especially in monocytes and relevant differentiated cells.