Meet Carson Cole researching fibrotic processes in heart and liver disease

What did you know about D-BSSE before you came here, and what was your motivation to come to ETH Zurich?

Before I joined the D-BSSE, I was familiar with the superb reputation of innovation that is associated with ETH Zürich. This ranges from work in nuclear magnetic resonance of protein structures by Nobel laureate Kurt Wüthrich to Vladimir Prelog’s work on chirality of organic molecules. Currently, D-BSSE is also working on establishing biotech start-ups that have real world implications. I was intrigued by the possibility of new discoveries at the interface of transcriptomics, organoids, gene-delivery and mechanobiology. I wanted to transition to D-BSSE because it seemed to be a group of research using experimental and theoretical approaches to tackling some of the most difficult questions in bioengineering. The interdisciplinary approach and collaborations with nearby universities was also a big plus.

What were your expectations, and were your expectations met since you arrived in Basel?

While I have also lived in Japan for a few years and the US, Switzerland seemed liked a place that has not only beauty, but a rich culture of balancing different cultural heritages and languages. Since moving here, I have also noticed the international community in Basel and its commitment to the Arts. The town is vibrant and has plenty to do on the weekends. Access to the outdoors is also a plus, just a couple of hours by train and you’ve arrived at some of the most breath-taking vistas in the world. I would say that Basel has exceeded my expectations so far.

What were your first impressions?

While not proficient at German, just yet I was surprised at how different Basel dialect is compared to High German. I like how each area develops their own forms of culture through language and Basel is no exception. The research group here also enjoys sharing coffee breaks together, something that has been different from my previous labs, and it’s quite nice to build camaraderie and discuss science over a cup of coffee. I have also noticed how diverse the research group is here, it is nice to hear other perspectives, and to know that ETH is an institution drawing some of the best researchers from around the globe.

Into which research will you delve at D-BSSE?

Fibrosis, a condition responsible for nearly 45% of deaths in developed nations, occurs when tissues become excessively stiff due to an imbalance in the production and breakdown of the extracellular matrix. These fibrotic tissues can be responsible for scarring, liver cirrhosis, and heart attacks. Current models struggle to accurately replicate how healthy tissues turn fibrotic, limiting our ability to develop effective treatments. My studies at the D-BSSE aim to improve fibrosis research by developing new peptide-based materials that mimic natural ECM proteins like collagen. These materials are more consistent and customizable than existing ones and could better simulate the fibrotic process. By testing how cells interact with these materials, the research hopes to create better models for studying liver fibrosis and discovering new treatments, with potential applications in tissue regeneration and drug delivery.

Which hobby do you hope to pursue in Switzerland?

I am an avid cyclist, and it is my hope to be able to cycle all throughout Switzerland and Europe during the warmer months. For winter, I will be backcountry skiing and prepping for cycling by jogging and climbing at the gym. I also want to learn German and delve more into the museums and art that are so readily available in Basel.  

Many thanks, Carson, welcome to the D-BSSE and and all the very best to you and your research!