First Principles
A first-principles theoretical framework for understanding biological aging.
- First Principles Thinking
- TRCS Model as the core model
- Theory-driven integration of aging biology
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Research Focus
Our research is organized around a unified scientific framework, progressing from first-principles theory to biological mechanisms and disease applications.
Research Focus
This page is currently under development.
Bilu Huang Institute for Aging Research (BHIAR) is currently developing this section to introduce our research programs and scientific priorities. Please check back soon for updates.
Research Strategy
How we think.
TRCS Model
Molecular and systems-level mechanisms underlying aging processes.
- rDNA biology and genome stability
- Telomere dynamics
- p53-mediated regulatory programs
- Cellular senescence systems
Disease-Relevant Research
Mapping aging mechanisms to multiple degenerative disease systems through comparative biology.
- Cancer biology
- Cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases
- Other age-related degenerative diseases
Mechanistic Biology
What mechanisms we investigate.
Refinement of the TRCS Model
Developing the TRCS Model through first-principles reasoning, generating testable hypotheses, validating predictions experimentally, and continuously refining the model as new biological evidence emerges.
rDNA Expansion Mechanisms
Investigating the molecular mechanisms responsible for ribosomal DNA maintenance, expansion, and genome stability across the lifespan.
Immune Biology
Investigating how aging alters immune regulation, immune-cell function, inflammatory responses, and the maintenance of tissue homeostasis.
Developmental Biology
Studying how developmental programs, tissue maturation, and age-dependent biological changes are coordinated across the lifespan.
Cell Differentiation
Investigating how gene-regulatory programs guide cell differentiation, maintain cellular identity, and change during aging.
Neurobiology
Studying the biological mechanisms that maintain neural function and how these systems change during aging and neurodegeneration.
Disease-Relevant Research
Which diseases we study.
Cancer and Immunosenescence
Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. We study the biological mechanisms linking aging, immune decline, and cancer progression.
Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases
Cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death worldwide. We study the biological mechanisms underlying vascular aging and degenerative disease.