Dr. Konrad Hochedlinger

Biography

Konrad Hochedlinger is a professor in the Department of Genetics at Harvard University. He leads a research laboratory focused on understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying pluripotency and nuclear reprogramming. His research explores how embryonic stem (ES) cells can give rise to various cell types within the mammalian body, and how nuclear reprogramming allows for the dedifferentiation of specialized cells back to a pluripotent state. This process can occur naturally or be achieved experimentally through methods such as nuclear transfer, ES cell-somatic cell fusion, or direct induction of embryonic genes into somatic cells, leading to the generation of induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells. Hochedlinger’s lab employs a combination of genome-wide approaches such as RNA interference and chemical screening to dissect the mechanisms that govern pluripotency and epigenetic reprogramming. Ultimately, the goal of his research is to facilitate the generation of custom-tailored cells for therapeutic applications and to enhance the understanding of various diseases.

Research Interests

Experience