aging
Stem cell research applications in aging include understanding how the aging process unfolds at molecular, cellular, and tissue levels across diverse cell and tissue types; exploring methods to rejuvenate and reverse hallmarks of aging; and restoring or repairing lost function in diseases associated with aging. Researchers interested in aging include those interested in molecular and cellular biology; bioengineers developing new approaches for tissue engineering and cellular therapies; longevity experts focused on extending healthy human lifespan, and more. Register to hear these presentations at ISSCR 2026.
Isabel Farinas, PhD
University of Valencia, Spain Presenting in Organ Function and Cross-Organ Communication
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Isabel Fariñas’ work focuses on the biology of the neural stem cell niche. She helped define the role of blood vessels in neurogenic niches, the active regulation of stem cell quiescence, and the influence of cell-cycle molecules, cell adhesion, and inflammation in maintaining these cells. Her lab studies the intrinsic and extrinsic signals that influence neural stem cell behavior, with emphasis on the dynamic transitions among quiescent, primed-for-activation, and activated states.
Li Gan, PhD
Weill Cornell Medical College, USA
Presenting in Aging Models and Age-Related Diseases
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Li Gan develops stem cell-based models of Alzheimer’s disease that capture interactions among neurons, microglia, and astrocytes, including advanced triculture systems. Her work uses human iPSC models to dissect cell-type–specific contributions to neurodegeneration and inflammation.
Longhua Guo, PhD
Presenting in Aging and Rejuvenation
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Longhua Guo studies aging, regeneration, and global tissue rejuvenation in long-lived animals, including planarians and leopard geckos. The Guo lab applies a variety of techniques in genetics, genomics, molecular, cellular, and developmental biology to investigate fundamental principles of aging, age-associated decline, and age reversal (rejuvenation).
Pura Muñoz-Cánoves, PhD
Altos Labs San Diego Institute of Science, USA
Presenting in Aging and Rejuvenation
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Pura Muñoz-Cánoves is a leading researcher in skeletal muscle regeneration and aging whose discoveries have set new paradigms for understanding of age-associated decline of skeletal muscle function and regenerative ability. Her work dissects how muscle stem cells and inflammatory signaling regulate tissue repair and decline with age, informing strategies to restore regenerative capacity in degenerative and age-related conditions.
Weiqi Zhang, PhD
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Weiqi Zhang is a computational biologist working on large-scale genomics and bioinformatics methods to analyze mechanisms of aging, aging-related diseases, and interventions to delay aging. Their research focuses on integrating multi-omics and single-cell data to reconstruct developmental and disease-relevant cellular programs, supporting data-driven modeling across stem cell and developmental biology.