Dr Sj Shen

I am a postdoctoral fellow in A/Prof Amany Zekry's group, based at Microbiome Research Centre, St George Clinical School, Kogarah NSW. My research investigates the intricate interactions between host immunity and gut microbiota, and how alterations in the gut contributes and modulates inflammation in the liver. By better understanding the mechanisms that underlie how this "gut-liver axis" impacts liver inflammation and disease, I hope to find how modifying the gut microbiota can prevent or halt the progression of liver cancer.

I am a researcher in respiratory and gastrointestinal tract diseases, with a major focus on the interaction between host immunity and microbiota. I have a special interest in the role that diet plays in immune responses and disease progression and modification. Prior to my current role, I trained as a postdoctoral fellow at UTS / Centenary Institute investigating the importance of microbiota in respiratory diseases.

I completed my PhD at Monash University (2019) examining the interplay between the gut microbiota and neutrophils in a mouse model of colitis. My research topic during his 3rd year research project and Honours (Monash University) was examining the role of dietary fibre and short-chain fatty acids in a mouse models of lung inflammation (allergic airways disease and aspergillosis) and oesophagitis.