Prof. Taihao Quan | University of Michigan | United States
Dr. Taihao Quan, MD, PhD, is a Research Professor in the Department of Dermatology at the University of Michigan Medical School. With over three decades of experience, Dr. Quan is internationally recognized for his pioneering work on skin aging, extracellular matrix biology, and fibroblast mechanobiology. His research has significantly advanced our understanding of age-related changes in skin structure and function, and his collaborative publications have amassed over 3,000 citations. A physician-scientist by training, Dr. Quan’s academic journey has taken him from China to Japan and the United States, where he has held multiple prestigious research positions. His interdisciplinary expertise in dermatology, molecular genetics, and tissue biology has positioned him as a key contributor to dermatological science. Dr. Quan continues to mentor young scientists while leading impactful research projects aimed at unraveling molecular mechanisms of skin aging and developing novel anti-aging strategies.
Publication Profiles:
Education:
Dr. Taihao Quan received his Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree from Norman Bethune University of Medical Science in Changchun, China. He later pursued advanced biomedical research and obtained a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree from Akita University School of Medicine in Akita, Japan. His educational background uniquely integrates clinical medical training with fundamental and translational research, offering a robust foundation for his contributions in dermatological science. During his doctoral studies, Dr. Quan specialized in cellular and molecular biology, focusing on mechanisms of mutagenesis and carcinogenesis. This dual medical and scientific training empowered him to bridge clinical insights with laboratory discoveries, setting the stage for a career dedicated to aging, dermatology, and molecular genetics. His educational journey reflects a commitment to excellence across cultures and disciplines, ultimately shaping a research career that continues to impact skin biology and regenerative medicine.
Professional Experience:
Dr. Quan began his research career as a Research Associate at the Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics at Wayne State University, where he studied gene-environment interactions in DNA damage and repair. He then joined the University of Michigan Department of Dermatology, where he worked as a Research Fellow and later as a Senior Research Fellow. Since then, he has risen to the position of Research Professor, leading several NIH-funded projects on skin aging and extracellular matrix biology. Over his extensive career, Dr. Quan has collaborated with leaders in dermatology and molecular biology, contributing to over 40 peer-reviewed publications. His work integrates molecular, cellular, and tissue-level analyses to uncover mechanisms of aging and fibrotic disease in human skin. Dr. Quan’s professional journey showcases a steady progression from basic research to influential leadership in dermatological science and translational medicine.
Research Focus:
Dr. Quan’s research is primarily centered on the biology of skin aging and skin cancer, with a strong emphasis on extracellular matrix (ECM) regulation, fibroblast function, and mechanical tension signaling. He investigates how dermal fibroblasts interact with their surrounding matrix under both physiological aging and pathological conditions like photoaging and fibrosis. His studies often explore the molecular mechanisms involving collagen synthesis and degradation, YAP/TAZ signaling pathways, and the effects of mechanical forces on cellular behavior. More recently, Dr. Quan has been involved in identifying key ECM receptors like Integrin α11β1, and assessing anti-aging compounds such as retinol and ursolic acid. His research aims to elucidate therapeutic targets for reversing or preventing age-related degeneration and fibrotic remodeling in human skin. With a multidisciplinary approach, his work contributes to novel treatments for both aesthetic aging and chronic skin diseases, advancing translational dermatology.
Publications Top Notes:
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Hemolytic Resistance for Rabbit Red Cells of Saponin in Ginseng Cultured Tissues
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Mutagen Absorption Effects of a Dietary Fiber: Difference Between In Vitro and In Vivo
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Micronucleus Induction in Mouse Bone Marrow by Phenacetin Administration
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Effects of Colon Carcinogens on Rat Colon Mucosal DNA
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Induction of Unscheduled DNA Synthesis in Rat Colon Mucosa
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Expression of CYP1A1 in DNA Repair Deficient and Proficient Fibroblasts
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Cytotoxicity of Benzo(a)pyrene-trans-7,8-dihydrodiol in CYP1A1 Fibroblasts
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Mutagenicity of Benzo(a)pyrene Epoxide in Engineered Human Fibroblasts
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Preferential p53 Gene DNA Damage by Benzo(a)pyrene Metabolites
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Cloning and Characterization of the Human Protein Kinase C Promoter
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Dr. Taihao Quan is highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award based on his lifetime achievements in dermatological research and molecular medicine. His scholarly contributions have not only advanced scientific understanding of human skin aging and ECM biology but have also laid a foundation for future therapeutic innovations. The combination of scientific depth, research productivity, and academic leadership clearly positions Dr. Quan as an exemplary figure in the biomedical community. While there are opportunities for broader outreach and translational integration, his work already reflects the high standards and visionary thinking that this award aims to honor. Recognizing Dr. Quan would not only reward a well-earned career but also inspire continued excellence in the field of skin biology and aging research.