Hua-Chen Chang

Assistant Professor

Current Research

My research has been focused on understanding the role of transcription factors in the development of T helper cell subsets, which ultimately result in gene regulation and the subsequent immune responses.  I have worked on the Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 4 (STAT4) protein, a transcription factor which is required in IL-12 mediated biological functions including Th1 lineage development and IFNg production for anti-tumor immunity.  On the other hand, Th1-mediated inflammation results in tissue damage, which is the culprit in many inflammatory diseases and autoimmune diseases.  The ultimate goal is to understand the fundamental nature of immune physiology and to manipulate immunity effectors in various disease manifestations.  Another project is to study Th2-mediated allergic inflammation which is responsible for respiratory disorders such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).  The goal is to understand the interplay between the Th2 inflammatory environment and the onset of lung cancer, which could potentially lead to developing preventive strategies.  In summary, my research is focused on the aspect of the interplay between the immune responses and human diseases.