Mei Chen

Mei Chen, PhD, is a Professor of Dermatology and Director of the USC Laboratories for Investigative Dermatology at the University of Southern California. She holds a Ph.D. in Cell Biology, Virology, and Molecular Biology from Albert Einstein College of Medicine, followed by postdoctoral training at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and Cornell University Medical College. Her research focuses on type VII collagen structure/function, RDEB therapies (cell therapy, gene therapy), and wound healing mechanisms. Key projects include evaluating recombinant type VII collagen (rC7) in diabetic pigs, identifying RDEB scar formation pathways, and developing aminoglycoside-based drug therapies. NIH grants have supported her work for 20+ years.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Cell Biology, Virology, and Molecular Biology - Albert Einstein College of Medicine
• Postdoctoral Training - Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center & Cornell University Medical College

Research Interests: Her work spans collagen biology, genetic skin diseases, translational medicine, and regenerative therapies. Recent studies address RDEB pathophysiology, anti-scarring mechanisms, and molecular pathways in skin cancers like squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). She explores both bench-to-bedside therapies (e.g., rC7) and novel drug delivery systems.

Grants & Funding: Continuous NIH support since 2003. Current grants fund studies on rC7 efficacy, scar inhibition pathways, and SCC molecular targets.

Labs/Teams: Directs the USC Laboratories for Investigative Dermatology, a translational research hub focused on skin biology and disease. Collaborates with multidisciplinary teams in dermatology, bioengineering, and clinical trials.