Sarah Knox

Sarah Knox is a Professor in the Department of Cell & Tissue Biology at the University of California San Francisco (UCSF). Her research focuses on understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying organogenesis and regeneration of epithelial organs, particularly salivary glands, pancreas, and ocular structures. Her lab investigates how peripheral nerves, immune cells, and signaling pathways regulate stem cell behavior and tissue repair. She leads the Knox Lab, which integrates experimental models (e.g., mouse genetics, organoids) and advanced techniques (e.g., single-cell transcriptomics) to address fundamental questions in developmental and regenerative biology.

Key research themes include: 1) nerve-driven stem cell fate decisions, 2) neuronal signaling in organ architecture, and 3) immune modulation of regeneration. Recent work highlights therapeutic strategies for radiation-induced tissue damage and autoimmune diseases like Sjögren’s syndrome. Her lab collaborates across disciplines, leveraging biomaterials (e.g., hydrogels) and synthetic biology to advance regenerative medicine.

Publications span high-impact journals such as Science Advances, Cell Reports, and Developmental Cell, focusing on salivary gland, corneal, and lacrimal gland biology. Current projects aim to translate basic discoveries into clinical applications for tissue repair and disease treatment.