Geiger group
- Aging of stem cells
- Trauma-induced stem cell responses
- Clonal evolution & immune aging
Our research focuses on the biology of adult stem cells, with a particular emphasis on hematopoietic and intestinal stem cells in the context of aging. We investigate both intrinsic and extrinsic mechanisms that drive age-associated functional decline, including molecular and metabolic alterations within stem cells and changes in their microenvironment.
In addition, we study how trauma and systemic stress influence stem cell behavior and regenerative capacity. A major focus of our work is the role of hematopoietic stem cells in immune aging, as well as the mechanisms underlying their transformation into pre-malignant and malignant states.
Ultimately, our goal is to understand how stem cell dysfunction contributes to aging-related diseases and other types of dysfunction upon challenges like in trauma and to identify stem cell based strategies for promoting healthy tissue maintenance and regeneration.