Hiromitsu Harimoto
PhD Student
Cambridge Stem Cell Institute
Biography
I am a PhD student at the Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, specializing in stem cell biology. My research focuses on understanding hematopoietic stem cells and their differentiation patterns, with an emphasis on how bone marrow niches influence cell fate. Prior to my PhD, I gained extensive experience at UC Berkeley, a Harvard-affiliated startup, and MIT, where I contributed to cutting-edge projects in translational biology and regenerative medicine. My background combines academic excellence with practical innovation, exemplified by projects such as cancer therapy micelles and inclusive science initiatives. This unique blend of expertise fuels my passion for impactful research and entrepreneurship.
Research
My research at the Cambridge Stem Cell Institute focuses on understanding the aging process of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and how their function and fate are influenced by distinct bone marrow niches. HSCs are critical for maintaining blood and immune system homeostasis, but their function deteriorates with age, leading to increased susceptibility to hematological disorders, immune dysfunction, and diminished regenerative capacity.
Through my studies, I aim to uncover how aging affects the interplay between HSCs and their microenvironment in various bone marrow niches. By comparing HSCs from different regions and analyzing their behavior in young versus aged mice, I hope to identify niche-specific factors that contribute to age-related functional decline. This research could reveal new targets for therapeutic interventions to restore HSC function and improve healthspan.
The project combines cutting-edge techniques, such as single-cell analysis and barcoded lineage tracing, to map differentiation pathways and uncover molecular drivers of aging. My work is not only an effort to advance our understanding of stem cell biology but also a step toward developing novel strategies to combat age-related diseases and enhance regenerative medicine approaches. Through this research, I aim to contribute to the growing field of stem cell aging and its clinical applications.
