Our research group focuses on the mechanism studies of major human diseases, aiming to provide new strategies for disease diagnosis and treatment. Currently, we are focusing on diseases such as diabetes, liver cancer, breast cancer, and melanoma. These diseases can alter the levels of cytokines and metabolites in patients’ plasma. We hope to validate some of our findings through large-scale plasma protein profiling. Below, I will use diabetes-related research to illustrate the problems I aim to solve using this database.
Research Questions: In our previous research on mice, we found that the plasma levels of the CCL3 cytokine were significantly upregulated in diabetic mice, along with a significant increase in heme. These changes were also associated with some diabetes complications, such as anemia, periodontitis and foot ulcers. While the mouse data is very detailed, we are uncertain whether the same phenomenon is observed in humans, or if it is only applicable to mice.
Objectives: By comparing the plasma protein profiles of normal individuals with those of diabetic patients or diabetic patients with complications, we aim to verify our findings or potentially discover new insights.
Scientific Rationale: If our findings are validated in diabetic patients, then these factors or metabolites are likely to play an important role in the development of diabetes complications. They could serve as new diagnostic indicators for patients.
