Meet Dr. Lian Cai: Using Stem Cells to Unlock Clues About FOXG1

Lian visited The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City with other lab members from the FOXG1 Research Center (summer 2023).

Dr. Lian Cai came to the U.S. from halfway across the world — originally from China, with advanced training in South Korea — to join the Lee Lab at the University at Buffalo, home of the FOXG1 Research Center. After earning her master’s and PhD at Chungbuk National University and building a strong foundation in stem cell research, she was ready to take on a new challenge: studying how FOXG1 mutations affect brain development at the cellular level.

When she learned about the work being done at Lee Lab, she knew it was the right fit.

“As soon as I got the offer, I knew I was going to accept,” she said. “This was exactly the kind of research I wanted to be part of.”

Now, as a key member of the FOXG1 Research Center, Liani plays an essential role in uncovering how FOXG1 mutations disrupt neuron function — and how that knowledge could help inform future therapies.

From Patient Cells to Neurons

Lian works on the cell culture side of the lab, where she focuses on a powerful and innovative area of research: taking somatic cells from FOXG1 patients, reprogramming them into pluripotent stem cells, and guiding those stem cells to become neural cells in the lab.

Because researchers can’t obtain neural cells directly from patients, this method offers a valuable alternative. It gives scientists a way to study how patient-specific FOXG1 mutations affect neural cell development and communication — all in a controlled environment.

“It was very exciting for me to learn how to reprogram stem cells into neurons,” Lian said. “It’s not easy, but it’s so meaningful.”

She’s especially proud of the skills she’s developed in maintaining pluripotent stem cell lines and differentiating them into neurons — complex techniques that require focus, patience, and precision.

“It takes a long time to perfect,” she shared, “but it’s been so helpful for my research.”

Why In Vitro Research Matters

While some FOXG1 research involves animal models, Lian’s work offers a complementary approach. By studying patient-derived neurons in the lab — a process called in vitro research — she’s able to explore how FOXG1 mutations directly affect human neural cells. These insights are essential, even though in vitro systems can’t fully capture the complexity of a living brain (in vivo).

“In vitro is simplified compared to in vivo, which is much more complicated,” she explained. “That’s why having both mouse models and cell culture is so important — together, they give us a clearer picture of FOXG1 syndrome.”

While she occasionally collaborates on mouse model studies, Lian’s day-to-day work centers on human neuron models derived from patient cells. Through this work, she helps the team explore how FOXG1 mutations affect cellular processes that are important for healthy brain development and function.

A Passion for Discovery

Lian’s curiosity and persistence drive her every day. She says the most important lesson she’s learned in her career is the value of persistence and adaptability — essential traits for anyone working in science.

“I’m excited to explore how FOXG1 mutations impact neuronal function,” she said. “Understanding these mechanisms could help lead to therapeutic strategies. That potential keeps me motivated.”

One of her most rewarding accomplishments was successfully developing stem cell lines with enhanced differentiation potential — an achievement that laid the foundation for much of her current work.

She also finds fulfillment in the lab’s collaborative spirit.

“There’s a strong sense of teamwork here,” she said. “I really enjoy working with my colleagues — we support each other and work toward the same goal.”

A Gentle Message for Families

Lian hasn’t yet had the opportunity to meet FOXG1 families directly, but when asked what she might say, her answer was simple, kind, and heartfelt:

“I may not have the right words,” she said with a smile. “But I would just want to say how beautiful their child is. Everything about them is beautiful.”

It’s a sentiment that reflects not only her gentle nature, but also her deep respect for the families and children at the heart of this research.

Looking Ahead

Outside the lab, Lian enjoys reading, watching movies, exploring new places, and going for walks or drives — activities that help her unwind and recharge. Living in Buffalo has been a new experience, but she’s embracing the change and staying focused on the big picture.

As she looks to the future, her hopes are clear: more progress, more understanding, and real movement toward therapies.

“In the next few years, I hope to see advancements in personalized medicine and gene-based therapies,” she said. “We’re learning so much, and I believe that knowledge will help families one day.”

Lian enjoying a vacation day at Disney World in Orlando, Florida.