Using birds as a major model, we ask how cell types and gene regulatory networks evolve to generate tissue diversity. Combining single cell transcriptomics along with epigenomics tools, our research focuses on three major directions: Evo-Devo of Skin Appendages, Regulatory Innovation, and Tissue Anti-aging.
Using birds as a model, we aim to identify the molecular mechanisms underlying the evolutionary development of diverse skin appendages, with a specific focus on avian-specific tissues.
Uncovering how novel regulatory elements, including alternative isoforms and transposon-derived sequences, contribute to the emergence of new cell states and morphologies.
Characterizing gene regulatory differences in aging tissues between humans and non-model species. Recognizing the limitations of mice as models for aging research, we aim to leverage biological diversity to develop new strategies for understanding and potentially mitigating human tissue aging.
Miller Chen grew up in Taichung, Taiwan and received his PhD of Evolutionary biology from the National Taiwan University. He worked as postdoctoral fellow in the Keck Medical School at USC before coming to NDHU in 2026. Outside the lab, Miller loves ball games, reptiles, and weird plants..
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Dr. Chen’s lab has been activated on the second floor of the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine at National Dong Hwa University.