معرفی
Dr. Young-Kwon Hong is a Professor of Surgery at the Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, serving as Director of Translational and Basic Science Research for the Department of Surgery and affiliated with the Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center. His work centers on molecular controls of tissue fluid homeostasis across diseases including cancer, vascular malformations, and lymphedema.
Education:
- Ph.D. in Microbiology, University of California, Davis
- Post-doctoral fellowship, Harvard Institute of Human Genetics
His research spans lymphatic development, organ-on-chips technology, lymphedema therapy, ocular fluid dynamics, stem cell differentiation, and cancer metastasis. Key discoveries include retinoic acid's regenerative effects on lymphatic systems and PROX1's role in Schlemm's canal integrity for glaucoma. His work bridges molecular mechanisms with therapeutic applications through innovative models.
Recent publications (2021-2023) emphasize lymphatic regeneration mechanisms, ocular fluid dynamics, and cancer-lymphatic interactions. Studies integrate molecular biology, advanced imaging, and organ-on-chip systems to translate basic findings into therapies for lymphedema and glaucoma, demonstrating strong translational momentum.
Scientific Awards:
- Seungman Cha Young Scientist Award
- STOP CANCER Award
- Margaret E. Early Medical Research Foundation Young Investigator Award
- James H. Zumberge Innovation Research Award
- Concern Foundation Young Scientist Award
- American Heart Association Award
- The Wright Foundation Young Investigator Award
- DoD Breast Cancer Idea Award
- March Of Dime Birth Defect Foundation Scholar Award
- American Cancer Society Research Scholar Award
Dr. Hong has mentored over 80 trainees spanning high school to junior faculty levels, fostering expertise in vascular biology and translational research. His laboratory employs cutting-edge techniques including organ-on-chip models, intravital imaging, and molecular profiling to investigate fluid homeostasis mechanisms.
The Hong laboratory operates as a multidisciplinary hub integrating vascular biology, bioengineering, and clinical translation. Current initiatives focus on advancing retinoic acid therapy to clinical trials for lymphedema and developing novel glaucoma treatments targeting Schlemm's canal biology through mechanotransduction pathways.
