Letian Zhang. Photo: Private.

“I'm deeply honored to receive The Swedish Brain Foundation’s postdoctoral fellowship, which supports my research into the epigenetic mechanisms of brain tumors, specifically Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Gliomas (DIPGs)”, says Dr. Zhang.

DIPGs primarily affect children and tragically less than 10% of children survive beyond two years from the diagnosis. Given that DIPGs show global epigenetic abnormalities that result in aberrant gene expression, Zhang’s study is crucial for uncovering how brain tumor cells develop and behave. By using advanced single-cell epigenetic methods, he will dissect tumor cell heterogeneity that helps us understand the complexity of the tumors. The study has the potential to significantly improve the way brain tumors are diagnosed and treated, as well as pave the way for developing new therapies that are more targeted and personalized. 

“I am very grateful to The Swedish Brain Foundation for recognizing the importance of my study. The fellowship not only provides critical financial support that enables me to focus on my research, but also connects me with a community of researchers and clinicians who are equally committed to brain research”, says Zhang.

The name of the project is Deciphering the Epigenetic Landscape in Human Fetal Brain Development and Brain Tumors. 

Letian Zhang is part of Marek Bartosovic’s group at Stockholm University. The group focuses on developing cutting-edge single-cell methods to revolutionize the understanding of the epigenetic landscape in brain development and disorders. The lab aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms underlying neurological pathology and translate findings into innovative treatments.

Read more about the fellowship and see the full list of fellows at The Swedish Brain Foundation’s website (in Swedish)