Assistant Professor
Dr. Rafael Czepielewski's research explores the complex relationship between chronic inflammation, immune responses, and lymphatic vascular systems, specifically in the context of inflammatory bowel diseases and cancer.
Czepielewski's extensive academic journey began with a PhD in Cellular and Molecular Biology from Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, followed by a productive postdoctoral tenure at Washington University Medical School, St. Louis. Dr. Czepielewski's research is particularly focused on the interplay between chronic inflammation, immune responses, and lymphatic vascular systems, with a keen interest in inflammatory bowel diseases and cancer.
The Czepielewski Lab works in the crosstalk between immune cells, tertiary lymphoid structures, and lymphatic vessels. Utilizing advanced imaging techniques (confocal and intravital microscopy) along with immune profiling tools (spectral flow cytometry and scRNAseq), our group aims to unravel the molecular mechanisms that perpetuate inflammation and cancer progression. The ultimate goal is to leverage these insights to develop innovative therapeutic strategies for these currently unmet medical conditions.
His publications showcase a robust body of work aiming to elucidate the molecular mechanisms driving inflammation and cancer progression.