KT Lung Lab

Human alveolar type 2 (AT2) cells are cuboidal and polygonal in shape, making up approximately 5% of the alveoli's surface area. Their primary function is to synthesize and secrete surfactant proteins, which help reduce surface tension in the alveoli during homeostasis. It is essential to investigate the production and assembly of surfactant proteins in human AT2 cells because these processes may differ from those in rodents. Moreover, AT2 cells serve as 'bifunctional' stem cells. They have the ability to self-renew and regenerate AT1 cells in response to alveolar injury. Additionally, these cells are highly associated with various lung diseases, including COPD, fibrosis, lung tumors like adenocarcinomas, as well as diverse pathogenes. Therefore, here we aim to revisit human AT2 cells to clarify the definition of alveolar differentiation and maturation, and it physiological roles relevant to lung diseases. "우리 연구실은 인간의 폐 질환 발생 기전을 들여다보고 이해하기 위해 무엇보다 '인간 폐 발달 과정'을 주의 깊게 바라봅니다." "We are seeking a highly motivated student for our combined MS-PhD program who is eager to pursue our innovative research in our group."