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Staff Profile

Dr Chun Chen

Research Associate

  • Telephone: +44 (0) 191 208 5663
  • Address: Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research
    4th Floor Cookson Building
    Bioscience Institute
    Faculty of Medical Science
    Newcastle University
    UK
    NE2 4HH
Background

I was a medical trainee from China and joined the Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research at Newcastle University in 2015 to pursue a PhD with Dr Amy Reeve and Professor Sir Doug Turnbull. My main motivation stems from the patients I have encountered as a doctor and wanting to gain a further understanding into neurodegenerative diseases. My PhD project focused on the response of human substantia nigra neurons to mitochondrial dysfunction in Parkinson's disease and mitochondrial disease. I achieved my PhD in June 2019, and stayed in the Centre as a post-doctoral scientist to continue investigating the consequence of mitochondrial dysfunction in neurodegeneration.

Research

I am a researcher specializing in the study of neurodegenerative diseases, with a particular focus on the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in disease progression such as in Parkinson's disease and dementia. My research aims to offer deeper insight into these debilitating conditions and contribute to the development of new diagnostic markers and potential treatments.


In my current work, I leverage advanced technology to delve into the intricacies of mitochondrial function. I use high-plex imaging technology and imaging mass cytometry to profile mitochondrial proteins, a critical step in understanding the changes that occur during disease progression.


Another ongoing research involves studying mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation. By identifying markers in the early stages of disease, we hope to enhance early detection and intervention strategies, potentially slowing or halting disease progression.


Furthermore, I'm engaged in the development and use of cellular models to gain a deeper understanding of neurodegenerative diseases. I culture induced Pluripotent Stem Cell (iPSC)-derived dopaminergic neurons and astrocytes. These cellular models are used for studying disease mechanisms and for high-throughput drug screening.


Through these diverse research objectives, I aim to address the complex nature of mitochondrial pathologies in neurodegenerative diseases and contribute to our understanding and treatment.

Publications