Christopher Wiley

Research/Areas of Interest

My research focuses on the study of aging in the context of cellular metabolism, particularly as it pertains to the process known as cellular senescence. Cellular senescence is a stress response by which cells adopt a state of permanent mitotic arrest. More than simple arrest, the senescent phenotype is complex and includes a senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) that leads to secretion of multiple biologically-active molecules – including proinflammatory cytokines, matrix metalloproteinases, and growth factors – that can have potent effects on the tissue microenvironment. I hope to reveal new insights regarding the nature of cellular senescence and offer alternative avenues for intervention for associated disorders, such as cancer, diabetes, and aging.