Modeling FSHD cochlear dysfunction using iPSC-derived inner ear organoids​, Dongsheng Guo, PhD​

Dongsheng Guo, PhD, is an instructor at the UMass Chan Wellstone Center for FSHD, specializing in muscular dystrophies, including FSHD and LGMD, using patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). He developed a novel technology to generate functional muscle stem cells from human iPSCs, known as iMyoblasts. Dr. Guo continues to utilize this technology to develop universal muscle stem cells and model muscular dystrophies, aiming to understand their molecular pathologies and develop gene editing and drug-based therapeutics for treatment. In addition, he is investigating hearing loss in FSHD through FSHD iPS-derived organoids to explore the underlying mechanisms and develop potential treatments.

Co-hosted by the UMass Wellstone Center for FSHD and the FSHD Society

FSHD research and drug development is in a new era. Do you know what’s happening and how this might impact your life? Here’s your chance to hear from the research and advocacy leaders in New England, as well as from biopharmaceutical companies that are working on FSHD therapies. Get answers to your questions about your health, maintaining optimal function through physical therapy, exercise, assistive devices, and more. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to meet patients and families and network with FSHD Society leaders and activists in our community!