Muyang Lin

1. How did you become interested in translational gastroenterology? 

My interest in translational gastroenterology stems from my PhD research, which focuses on the bidirectional signalling crosstalk between epithelial cells and fibroblasts in the intestine during homeostasis, regeneration, and cancer. The intestine is a fascinating system, particularly due to the transition from a proliferative stem cell zone to a differentiated post-mitotic zone along the crypt-villus axis. This architecture makes it an ideal model for studying how graded microenvironmental signals regulate tissue balance and cellular fate. What motivated me as well was witnessing how fundamental discoveries in the lab can evolve into potential clinical applications. As a junior researcher, I saw firsthand how mechanistic insights can influence therapeutic strategies. That realisation—seeing research not as an endpoint, but as a bridge to improving patient outcomes—greatly sparked my interest in translational research within gastroenterology. 

2. What are you currently working on and what importance does your work hold for current patients with gastrointestinal issues? 

My current work aims to dissect the dynamic and adaptive interactions between epithelial cells and fibroblasts in the intestine across physiological and pathological states, including regeneration and cancer. Specifically, my project focuses on elucidating the signalling crosstalk that establishes the ontology among diverse fibroblast subpopulations under healthy conditions and how the mutual signalling is corrupted during tumorigenesis. An improved understanding of the functional heterogeneity and developmental trajectory of diverse inflammation-associated and cancer-associated fibroblast populations will enable us to consider mesenchymal remodelling in diseases in the context of targeted and accurate populations. Furthermore, the output of this project will also help uncover the precise impact of cumulative epithelial mutations, potentially leading to the discovery of therapeutic targets that disrupt such inter-compartmental co-evolution to prohibit cancer progression. 

3. What do you enjoy most about scientific research? 

What excites me most about scientific research is the constant process of learning and challenging myself. Research is inherently dynamic—there’s always a new concept to learn, a new technique to master, or a new question to ask. For instance, through the Oxford Biomedical Data Science Training Programme and self-study, I’ve developed skills in bioinformatics that have expanded my research capabilities, allowing me to explore complex datasets and generate novel insights. Beyond the intellectual curiosity, I’m driven by the translational potential of research work and the interdisciplinary nature of translational research, which brings together expertise from molecular biology, computational sciences, mathematics, clinical medicine, and beyond. 

4. What’s the best part of being an Oxford University TGLU member? 

The Translational Gastroenterology Unit at Oxford offers a vibrant and collaborative environment for researchers at all career stages. The regular seminars and events organised by TGLU provide fantastic opportunities to engage with world-leading experts in both basic science and clinical gastroenterology. These events foster a sense of community and open doors for collaboration, mentorship, and knowledge exchange. As a junior researcher, I particularly value the supportive environment and the emphasis on scientific development. I’m especially excited to be presenting at this year’s TGLU Day to share my research, receive feedback, and spark new ideas. I’m looking forward to engaging in discussions with peers and senior colleagues and gaining fresh perspectives that will help shape my future work. Being part of TGLU not only strengthens my research but also inspires me to think about how my science can ultimately make a meaningful impact on patient care.