Lan Jiang

Lan Jiang is a Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences within the College of Arts and Sciences at Oakland University. Located in Dodge Hall (Rooms 322, 321, and 323), Dr. Jiang teaches undergraduate courses including BIO 3130 Developmental Biology, BIO 3210 Biology of the Cell, and BIO 3400 Genetics. Their research program is supported by the National Institute of Health and focuses on fundamental mechanisms of biological development.

Dr. Jiang's primary research interest is in understanding the mechanisms of biological tube formation, using the Drosophila tracheal system as a model. Tubes are fundamental building blocks in human organs including lungs, kidneys, and vasculature, and defects in tube morphology lead to diseases such as polycystic kidney disease. Dr. Jiang's lab has identified several novel genes that regulate critical steps in tube morphogenesis, including the stability of cellular junctions/apical membrane and the air-filling of tubes. Their work bridges basic developmental biology with potential clinical applications for human tubular organ diseases.

Analysis of Dr. Jiang's publication record from 2003-2024 reveals a consistent research trajectory focused on Drosophila tracheal development, with increasing sophistication in identifying specific genetic regulators of tube morphogenesis. The research has evolved from characterizing basic transcriptional regulators (dysfusion, 2003-2007) to identifying novel genes controlling specific aspects of tube maturation (Osiris family, apnoia, rebuff; 2018-2023), culminating in the most recent work on cell-mediated branch fusion mechanisms (2024). The publications span developmental biology, cell biology, and genetics disciplines with strong emphasis on epithelial tube formation processes relevant to human organ development.

Dr. Jiang actively mentors undergraduate students, as evidenced by numerous publications listing OU students as co-authors (marked with asterisks). Their research laboratory in Dodge Hall Rooms 321 and 323 appears to be well-established with dedicated lab space and equipment for Drosophila genetics and developmental biology research. The sustained NIH funding indicates recognition of the significance and quality of their research program in the field of developmental biology.