Wei Li

Wei Li, PhD, is an Associate Professor affiliated with the Department of Pediatrics and the Department of Cell and Biological Systems at Penn State University. He is also associated with the Penn State Cancer Institute and Penn State Neuroscience Institute, where he focuses on understanding tumor mechanisms and neurodevelopmental biology.

Dr. Li’s research investigates intercellular interactions in tissue homeostasis, particularly how deregulated cell communication drives tumor progression. His lab employs molecular, cellular, and biochemical techniques alongside mouse models to study the Hippo tumor suppressor pathway in brain tumors, aiming to identify molecular targets and biomarkers for cancer therapy. Projects include characterizing Merlin’s posttranslational modifications, analyzing necrosis in glioblastoma, and exploring LC3-associated phagocytosis of neutrophils in glioblastoma cell death.

Recent publications highlight trends in glioblastoma research, emphasizing ferroptosis, disulfidptosis, and immune cell interactions. His work intersects with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to health and well-being, particularly through advancements in cancer therapy.

Dr. Li’s grants include funding from the National Cancer Institute and Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs, supporting studies on cell competition, tumor suppression, and macrophage roles in glioma transformation.