Research Platforms

Our research programs are supported by comprehensive platforms that span across cohort recruitment, high-throughput sequencing, microbial isolation, preclinical modeling and clinical trial. These platforms form a flexible foundation for discovery, validation, and translation across neurodevelopmental and microbiome-related conditions, with ASD as our initial focus.

Diverse Cohort

Our research is supported by two robust, pediatric cohorts that provide longitudinal data on child development and microbiome composition.

HATCH Cohort

Comprising 1,600 children, this cohort includes children with and without ASD recruited from regional teaching hospitals and psychiatric clinics (Prince of Wales Hospital, Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital), as well as matched typically developing children from the community and local schools.

JC Community Cohort

Comprising 752 children recruited from families participating in a community-based educational support programme supported by the Jockey Club initiative, this cohort focuses on early childhood development, microbiome-host interactions, and behavioral outcomes.

Deep Metagenomic Profiling

By analyzing stool samples from children across our research cohorts, we have built a comprehensive microbiome dataset. To date,

Over 2,500 stool samples have been sequenced

Generated 20 terabytes of data using advanced shotgun metagenomic technology
Includes detailed microbial gene markers, species profiles, and functional annotations

Preclinical & Functional Models

We leverages advanced experimental platforms—including gnotobiotic facilities and anaerobic chambers—to investigate how gut microbes influence brain function and behavior.

To date, we have identified key microbial factors that impact core features of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), including social interaction and repetitive behaviors:

Fecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT)
Transferring gut microbes from healthy donors to mice has been shown to alleviate ASD-like symptoms in preclinical models.
Probiotic Studies
High GABA-producing probiotic strains have demonstrated improvements in social behavior in ASD mouse models.
Mechanistic Research
Specific microbial biomarkers have been linked to changes in social behavior and repetitive actions, offering insights into potential therapeutic targets.

Clinical Trial Capability

We are equipped to conduct clinical trials through a dedicated, multi-disciplinary team that brings together expertise across key medical specialties:

Gastroenterology
Paediatrics
Psychiatry

This collaborative framework supports the translation of scientific discoveries into real-world health solutions for children and families.