Qingdao University | China
Author Profile
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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓
Prof. Peng Chen's journey in medical research began with a strong foundation in clinical medicine and biomedical sciences. She earned her Bachelor of Medicine degree from Taishan Medical College (1999-2004), where she gained essential medical knowledge and clinical training. Her pursuit of advanced expertise led her to Capital University of Medical Sciences (2004-2007), where she obtained a Master of Science degree, focusing on medical research methodologies and specialized clinical studies. To further deepen her understanding and expertise, she pursued a Doctor of Medicine (2009-2012) at Qingdao University, refining her specialization in ophthalmology and regenerative medicine.
Professional Endeavors 🔬
After completing her master's degree, Prof. Chen embarked on her professional career at the Shandong Eye Institute (2007-2016), a renowned institution dedicated to ophthalmology research. During her tenure, she made significant contributions to vision sciences and ocular disease research, strengthening her expertise in eye-related disorders. In 2016, she transitioned to Qingdao University, where she currently serves as a leading researcher and faculty member. Her role at the university allows her to conduct cutting-edge research on ophthalmology and liver regeneration, mentor young medical scientists, and contribute to the advancement of medical science.
Contributions and Research Focus 🔍
Prof. Chen's research has significantly impacted liver regeneration, macrophage efferocytosis, and ophthalmology, particularly in understanding cellular mechanisms and disease pathophysiology. Some of her key contributions include:
- Liver Regeneration and Macrophage Efferocytosis: Her recent studies have explored the NLRP3 inflammasome's role in constraining liver regeneration by impairing macrophage efferocytosis (Sci Adv., 2025). Additionally, she has investigated the role of Aquaporin-5 in facilitating liver regeneration via the ROS/GSDMD pathway (Cell Signal., 2025) and how extracellular vesicles containing GAS6 protect the liver from ischemia-reperfusion injury (Cell Death Discov., 2024).
- Ophthalmology and Ocular Disease Research: She has studied the retinoic acid synthesis pathway in AQP5-deficient mice and its implications for dry eye disease (Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci., 2024). Her research has also examined the regulation of axon guidance by Slit2 and Netrin-1 signaling in lacrimal gland development (Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci., 2023).
Prof. Chen’s research not only deepens scientific knowledge in these areas but also paves the way for novel therapeutic strategies for liver and eye diseases.
Accolades and Recognition 🏆
Prof. Chen’s contributions to medical science have been widely recognized through prestigious research grants and peer-reviewed publications. She has received:
- National Natural Science Foundation of China (2020-2023): RMB 550,000 for research on AQP5’s protective role in lens transparency through miRNA-mediated autophagy.
- Shandong Provincial Natural Science Foundation (2018-2021): RMB 150,000 for the identification and functional study of Fuchs corneal endothelial dystrophy gene.
Her research has been featured in top-tier scientific journals, including Science Advances, Cell Signal, Cell Death Discovery, and Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science, reinforcing her status as a leading expert in regenerative medicine and ophthalmology.
Impact and Influence 🌍
Prof. Chen’s work bridges fundamental research and clinical applications, making a profound impact in both ophthalmology and liver disease treatment. Her findings on macrophage efferocytosis and aquaporins have opened new avenues for therapeutic interventions in liver regeneration, while her contributions to ocular disease mechanisms have enhanced the understanding of corneal and lacrimal gland pathophysiology.
Through her mentorship, collaborations, and academic contributions, she continues to shape the next generation of medical researchers and clinicians, strengthening Qingdao University’s reputation as a hub for medical research excellence.
Legacy and Future Contributions 🚀
With an established track record in liver regeneration and ophthalmic research, Prof. Peng Chen’s future contributions are expected to drive medical innovations in regenerative medicine and precision healthcare. Her work on cellular signaling pathways, extracellular vesicles, and aquaporins will likely inspire new therapeutic breakthroughs in both systemic and ocular diseases. As she continues to lead cutting-edge research, mentor young scientists, and contribute to transformative discoveries, Prof. Chen’s legacy will be one of scientific excellence, innovation, and meaningful impact on global healthcare.
Publications