Lab Meeting with the Phng Lab

Where is the lab?

Li-Kun: My lab is located in Kobe, Japan. My lab initially belonged to RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology, which subsequently reformed to become the RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research.

Lab website: https://www.bdr.riken.jp/en/research/labs/phng-lk/index.html

Research summary

Li-Kun: My lab aims to understand how blood vessels are built and shaped into a hierarchical tubular network of arteries, veins and capillaries of optimal connections and size. We are particularly interested in endothelial cell mechanobiology – how physical forces and mechanical properties govern their shapes and behaviours to drive distinct steps of vessel morphogenesis, from sprouting angiogenesis to vessel remodelling. We are also keen to elucidate the interplay between endothelial cells and the perivascular environment such as haemodynamic forces (shear stress and pressure) at the apical surface and mural cells on the abluminal surface. In the long term, we aim to uncover whether altered endothelial cell mechanobiology contributes to endothelial dysfunction and vascular anamolies. To address these questions, we employ a spectrum of methodologies such as zebrafish genetics, high resolution time-lapse confocal microscopy, optogenetics, pharmacology, quantitative image analyses, scRNA sequencing and mathematical modelling.

Lab roll call

Li-Kun Phng: We are an internationally diverse lab, and the current lab members are listed from oldest to newest here.

Emi Taniguchi: I have been a lab assistant since 2016. I am doing administrative work and zebrafish system care in the lab. Also, I check the condition of our zebrafish daily to keep them healthy.

Igor Kondrychyn: I am a Research Scientist and am currently working on a project investigating the role of aquaporins in embryonic hematopoiesis.

Yan Chen: I am a postdoctoral researcher investigating vascular remodelling during zebrafish development, with a focus on how endothelial cells regulate vessel size and structure. My research explores how endothelial cells undergo rearrangement and shape changes, particularly through actin-driven constriction, to fine-tune vessel dimensions. Using zebrafish models, molecular genetics, and live imaging, I aim to uncover the cellular mechanisms underlying vascular remodelling.

Haymar Wint: I am a postdoctoral researcher, and my research interest lies in investigating the role of microtubules in mediating endothelial cell responses to fluid shear stress, unveiling its role in vascular development and remodeling.

Mingzhao Hu: I am a PhD student enrolled at the Department of Biological Sciences at Osaka University. I am interested in understanding how mural cells impact vascular remodeling using genetics and high-resolution time-lapse imaging.

Jason da Silva: I am a research technician. I carry out general lab duties and am working on creating knock-in zebrafish lines.

Rajrishi Kumar: As a technical staff member in the lab, I contribute to research on developmental biology and vascular morphogenesis, with a focus on sprouting angiogenesis and mechanobiology using zebrafish as a model organism. My work involves maintaining zebrafish lines, performing genotyping, and assisting with experiments that dive into the molecular and biophysical aspects of blood vessel formation. Along the way, my science toolbelt’s been getting a glow up with hands-on experience in genetic manipulation, molecular biology, and advanced imaging techniques.

Favourite technique, and why?

Li-Kun: Undoubtedly light microscopy – the higher the resolution the better – as it allows us to peer into the dynamics of vascular cell behaviour, enabling us to understand the process of vessel morphogenesis.

Apart from your own research, what are you most excited about in developmental and stem cell biology?

Li-Kun: I am presently fascinated with the growing prominence of ion channels, osmotic gradient and hydrostatic pressure in regulating tissue morphogenesis.

How do you approach managing your group and all the different tasks required in your job?

Li-Kun: My job entails juggling research, administrative work and some teaching. It was a steep learning curve starting my lab in Japan without knowing the language. Thankfully, I am lucky to have a very capable assistant who helps me deal with work-related matters in Japanese within and outside the institute, allowing me to focus on the science. A major goal is to provide a good research environment (in terms of infrastructure and opportunities) that is conducive to scientific excellence and efficiency. I firmly believe that communication is crucial not only in keeping up-to-date with scientific progress and shaping research direction, but also in identifying and tackling problems (be it scientific or personal) that surface. As such, I meet researchers every two weeks, encourage open communication in our weekly lab meetings and foster team spirit over meals and lab outings.  I also like to enliven the lab atmosphere by hosting visitors from abroad, which at the same time promotes exchange of ideas and technology as well as fostering collaborations. Another important aspect of my job is to ensure that we stay abreast with current developments in our field and to disseminate our work to the scientific community. In Japan, the JSPS-funded ‘Mechanical Self-transformation of Living Systems’ consortium (https://multicellular-mechanics.org/research) has been a vital platform for networking with scientists in the fields of biomedical sciences, engineering and physics. Beyond Japan, I attend internationally conferences and meetings but this is limited by family commitments. The plus side is that I spend more time with my lab members to develop and complete projects!

What is the best thing about where you work?  

LKP: Core funding from RIKEN! And being able to pursue curiosity-driven research.

EM: I enjoy working in multi-cultural environment with the members come from different countries. So far, I have met the lab members from 15 different countries.

IK: Friendly atmosphere.

YC: One of the best aspects of working in our lab is the supportive and collaborative environment. Communication flows easily within our team and across research groups. We also have access to an excellent microscopy facility, where the friendly staff provide invaluable support. 

HW: One of the best things about working at RIKEN BDR is its highly international environment, where researchers from diverse countries come together to collaborate. And, our lab’s warm, supportive, and well-structured team environment accelerates scientific progress, and makes work both productive and enjoyable.

MH: I’m the only student in our lab, so that I often receive helpful suggestions and feedback from other members, who have full experience in this field.

JDS: Everyone is nice and the atmosphere is very relaxed. 

RK: The best part? The people and the place. Sure, RIKEN’s state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge instruments are great for high quality research, but it’s the environment and community that make it truly exceptional. From lab members to admin staff, everyone is incredibly friendly, communicative, and genuinely helpful. And then there’s our team leader, high energy, inspiring, and somehow always present when you need a hand, a nudge, or a fresh perspective. Oh, and bonus points for the stunning sea view from the lunch area. Yes, science with a seaside vibe!

What’s there to do outside of the lab?

LKP: I would typically like to recharge my batteries by not doing anything, but this, unfortunately, is not possible because I have two young ones at home to entertain. Kobe is sandwiched between the mountain and the sea, and so we often venture to the beach or forests to appreciate nature. In Spring, we enjoy hanami (cherry blossom viewing); in Autumn, momijigari (viewing of the vibrant autumn colours of maple leaves); in Winter, warming ourselves up by going to onsen (hot springs). And of course, we love trying out new cafes and restaurants.

EM:  I like to travel not only in Japan but also to other countries to learn about cultures and ideas created by each region that has original geographical and historical factors.

IK: Relaxing outdoors (if no rain), cycling and listening to music while drinking wine.

YC: Outside the lab, Japan offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and city life. Depending on the season, I enjoy hiking in the nearby mountains, visiting historical temples and shrines, or exploring the diverse food options. There are also many festivals throughout the year, offering a chance to experience traditional culture. Within the lab, we often celebrate small victories, birthdays, and milestones with group dinners and relaxed afternoon tea gatherings.

HW: Outside the lab, I enjoy exploring Japan’s rich culture and natural beauty. I visit historical sites, experience seasonal festivals, and try different local foods. Sometimes, I join social gatherings with colleagues or participate in local events to experience Japanese traditions firsthand.

MH: Outside of the lab, we often have a food-themed adventure to explore the local food, from Ramen restaurant to open-air bar. I also spend time in nature to increase feelings of happiness and pay attention to the changing seasons. I really enjoy cherry blossom in spring and Momiji viewing in autumn!

JDS:  Kobe is close to the sea and to mountains so there are a lot of scenic places to visit. There are hundreds of restaurants to try around Kobe too. It’s also easy to visit other cities in Japan by public transport.

RK: I am new to the area, but outside of the lab I usually go for a run or play basketball. Here in Kobe, there are great cafes, cozy izakayas, and lively karaoke spots where we can relax after a long day. The city is also surrounded by mountains, offering plenty of hiking spots with scenic views of both the city and the ocean. And of course, we are in Japan, a hub for shopping and entertainment, so there is always something to do. Also, if you are feeling too adventurous, there are plenty of options for onsens to enjoy a hot spring experience.

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