Molecular Medicine
Research Field
Prof. Hsiu Mei Hsieh-Li
Institution: National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU) Contact: hmhsieh@ntnu.edu.tw
Current Academic & Administrative Roles
- Associate Vice President for International Affairs, NTNU (August 2023–Present).
- Professor, Department of Life Science, NTNU (February 2012–Present).
Education
- Ph.D., Program of Developmental Biology, Children’s Hospital, University of Cincinnati, OH, USA (1996).
- M.Sc., Institute of Biochemistry, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan (1991).
- B.Sc., Department of Chemistry, Soochow University, Taipei, Taiwan (1986).
Professional Experience
- Dean of Honor College, NTNU (August 2022–July 2023).
- Associate Dean, College of Science, NTNU (August 2016–July 2022).
- Associate Professor, Department of Life Science, NTNU (August 2004–January 2012).
- Assistant Professor, Department of Life Science, NTNU (August 2003–July 2004).
- Assistant Professor, Institute of Medical Research, Taipei Medical University (February 2000–July 2003).
- Postdoctoral Fellow, Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica (July 1996 – July 2000).
- Technician, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital (July 1986–August 1989).
Prof. Hsieh-Li’s laboratory investigates the molecular mechanisms of neurodegenerative disorders , with an emphasis on discovering novel therapeutic interventions.
Gut-Brain Axis Therapeutics: Evaluating the neuroprotective capabilities of prebiotics and psychobiotics (such as L. plantarum PS128 and L. paracasei PS23) in mitigating cognitive dysfunction and disease progression, specifically using 5xFAD transgenic mouse models for Alzheimer’s disease.
Molecular Pathways in Neuroprotection: Investigating the BDNF/TrkB signaling network as a primary therapeutic target, alongside exploring the emerging biological role of GlycoRNAs in Alzheimer's disease pathology.
Stem Cell Modeling: Differentiating induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) into specialized brain cells, including neurons, astrocytes, and microglia, to create robust in vitro models for neurodegeneration.
Natural Product Screening: Analyzing the efficacy of natural product extracts (e.g., Hedysarum alpinum, Rhinanthus Songaricus, and formulated Chinese medicines) for anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and cognitive improvement properties.
- Molecular Pathways in Neuroprotection: Investigating the BDNF/TrkB, AchE inhibitors signaling network as therapeutic target in Alzheimer's disease pathology.
- Stem Cell Modeling: Differentiating induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) into specialized brain cells, including neurons, astrocytes, and microglia, to create robust in vitro models for neurodegeneration.
- Natural Product Screening: Analyzing the efficacy of natural product extracts for anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and cognitive improvement properties.
- Ph.D., Program of Developmental Biology, Children’s Hospital, University of Cincinnati, OH, USA (1996).
- M.Sc., Institute of Biochemistry, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan (1991).
- B.Sc., Department of Chemistry, Soochow University, Taipei, Taiwan (1986).
Job Description
Molecular Pathway Analysis: Investigate signaling pathways within Alzheimer’s disease pathology to identify and characterize novel therapeutic targets for neuroprotection.
Preferred Intern Educational Level
master’s or advanced undergraduate student
Skill sets or Qualities
- Strong Theoretical Foundation: In-depth understanding of Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, and Genetic Engineering principles, with the ability to apply academic knowledge to experimental design.
- Laboratory Technical Literacy: Proficiency in core wet-lab methodologies gained through intensive coursework, including pipetting accuracy, reagent preparation, and adherence to safety protocols.
- Analytical Curiosity: A demonstrated interest in the bioactivity of natural compounds and the drive to transition from entomological applications (insect repellent) to therapeutic neuroprotection.
- Methodological Rigor: A disciplined approach to research, with a focus on reproducibility and careful documentation of experimental variables.
- Adaptability & Learning Agility: The capacity to quickly master new specialized techniques, such as cell culture or signaling pathway assays, building upon a solid microbiology and biotech background.