Tammy T. Chang

Dr. Tammy T. Chang, MD, PhD, is an esteemed Associate Professor of Surgery at the University of California, San Francisco, where she is at the forefront of research in liver tissue engineering and regeneration. Her pioneering work is dedicated to developing innovative surgical treatments aimed at replacing diseased or dysfunctional liver tissues, a critical area of need given the limitations and challenges associated with liver transplantation. Dr. Chang's laboratory is particularly focused on the liver due to its remarkable regenerative capacity and the pressing clinical demand for alternative therapeutic strategies. Her research delves into the intricate role of the physical environment and mechano-signal transduction in regulating hepatocyte function. She is also deeply invested in understanding the significance of dimensionality in the creation of human stem cell-derived liver organoids, which hold promise for advancing regenerative medicine. A key aspect of Dr. Chang's work involves developing surgical strategies that facilitate the efficient engraftment of hepatocytes and hepatic organoids into the liver. This research is crucial for enhancing the success rates of liver tissue engineering and providing viable alternatives to traditional transplantation methods. Her innovative approaches have garnered significant attention and support from prestigious federal funders, including NASA and NSF/CASIS, particularly for her groundbreaking research on liver tissue engineering in space and the effects of gravity on organogenesis. Dr. Chang's contributions to the field are well-documented through her numerous publications, which cover a wide range of topics such as irreversible electroporation, liver fibrosis, and hepatocyte function. Her work not only advances scientific understanding but also has the potential to transform clinical practices and improve patient outcomes in liver disease treatment. In addition to her research endeavors, Dr. Chang is committed to mentoring the next generation of scientists and surgeons, fostering an environment of innovation and collaboration. Her dedication to both her research and her students underscores her role as a leader in the field of biomedical engineering and surgery.