Behind the Research: Meet Dr. Liwen Li, Unraveling the Mysteries of FOXG1 Syndrome

Meet Dr. Liwen Li of FOXG1 Research Center!

The FOXG1 Research Center is more than just a lab; it’s a place where passion, dedication, and hope converge to make a tangible difference in the lives of families affected by FOXG1 syndrome. One of the brilliant minds behind this mission is Dr. Liwen Li, a Research Assistant Professor who brings not only exceptional expertise but also a profound sense of empathy and commitment to her work. This article highlights Liwen’s journey, her groundbreaking research, and the personal connections that drive her every day.

From Mountains to Microscopes: Liwen’s Personal and Professional Journey

Born and raised in the picturesque Anxi County of Fujian Province, China, Liwen grew up surrounded by mountains and coastal beauty. This harmonious environment instilled in her a sense of curiosity and an appreciation for life’s complexities. She pursued her academic journey with unrelenting dedication, earning a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Life Sciences and Developmental Biology from Fujian Normal University, and later a Ph.D. in Applied Life Sciences from Yonsei University in South Korea.

Liwen’s path to neuroscience began in craniofacial research, where she discovered a fascination with brain development. This natural progression brought her to the Lee Labs at the University at Buffalo (UB), now the FOXG1 Research Center, where her interest in neural development found its perfect match. “I enjoy studying the brain,” she says. “My earlier work in craniofacial research naturally led to my fascination with neurodevelopment.”

Finding a Home in Buffalo’s Scientific Community

Before joining the FOXG1 Research Center, Liwen’s career took her to Tulane University in New Orleans. While the experience was valuable, she found Buffalo’s safe, peaceful community a better fit. What ultimately solidified her decision to stay was the opportunity to explore the mysterious role of FOXG1 in the brain and work toward alleviating related symptoms. Meanwhile, she shares, “Jae and Soo’s enthusiasm, insight, and kindness toward their staff truly impressed me.”

Liwen’s dedication to FOXG1 research is evident in her daily work, which includes designing experiments, analyzing results, and meeting with Soo to discuss advancements. Her specific role is to investigate how FOXG1 functions at the molecular level, using mouse models to mirror genetic disorders seen in patients. “Understanding what changes on a molecular level in each FOXG1 patient can help us develop targeted therapeutic strategies,” she explains.

Building Connections with Families

While her work in the lab is technical and complex, it’s the personal connections with FOXG1 families that bring it all to life. Liwen recalls meeting a FOXG1 mother at the opening ceremony for the FOXG1 Research Center. “At the opening ceremony, I met a mother. Learning about her 8-year-old daughter’s behaviors at home and discussing them with her mom made me feel even more connected to my work,” she says. Moments like these inspire Liwen to push through the challenges of genetic research.

Challenges and Breakthroughs

The complexity of genetic studies is one of the biggest hurdles in FOXG1 research. “It takes a long time to develop experiments because there are so many layers of complication,” Liwen explains. Despite this, she remains optimistic. “Stay hopeful,” she tells FOXG1 families. “Progress will take time, but I am confident there will be advancements in the future.”

Liwen’s current projects include using AAV9-suppressor tRNAs to correct a FOXG1 nonsense mutation. She has already observed promising results in mouse models, such as reduced truncated proteins and improved neuronal development. Her work also has broader implications, potentially shedding light on conditions like Alzheimer’s, Huntington’s, autism, FOXP1 syndrome, and LHX2 haploinsufficiency.

A Parent’s Perspective

As a parent herself, Liwen deeply understands the struggles and hopes of families affected by FOXG1 syndrome. “As a parent, I know how much we love our children and how hard it must be for families to face these challenges,” she says. “That’s why I am dedicated to contributing to solutions.” This personal connection fuels her drive to make a difference.

The Future of FOXG1 Research

Looking ahead, Liwen sees immense potential in leveraging advancements like machine learning algorithms to understand the molecular mechanisms behind FOXG1 syndrome and related disorders. She also emphasizes the importance of focusing on inflammation and mitochondrial function in neuronal health, areas where restoring FOXG1 expression could yield significant benefits.

Liwen hopes to see higher transfection efficiency in AAV9 gene therapy through collaborative efforts and innovative techniques. Her ultimate goal is to develop therapeutic strategies that not only alleviate symptoms but also improve the quality of life for FOXG1 patients and their families.

Closing Thoughts

Liwen’s journey from the serene landscapes of Fujian to the cutting-edge labs of the FOXG1 Research Center is a testament to her resilience, curiosity, and commitment to making a difference. Her work is not just about science; it’s about hope, connection, and the unwavering belief that progress is possible.

To FOXG1 families, she offers a simple yet powerful message: “Stay hopeful. We are working tirelessly to find solutions, and I truly believe that together, we can make a difference.”

Dr. Li of FOXG1 Research Center and her son in China- summer 2024