THE COTTLE GROUP

The Cottle Lab develops innovative cell- and gene-based therapeutic technologies to improve the lives of patients with inherited metabolic and genetic liver diseases. Our research integrates cutting-edge approaches in gene editing, lipid nanoparticle-mediated delivery, hepatocyte transplantation, cryopreservation, immunology, and next-generation sequencing to advance safe and effective liver-directed therapies. Current areas of investigation include electroporation- and lipid nanoparticle-based CRISPR gene editing, cryopreservation of gene-edited primary hepatocytes, Cas9 immunogenicity in liver gene therapy, genomic stability and off-target safety analysis, and cell-based therapies for disorders such as hereditary tyrosinemia type I and familial hypercholesterolemia. By combining principles from life sciences, bioengineering, and translational medicine, we seek to solve complex biomedical challenges while accelerating the clinical translation of next-generation therapies for pediatric and adult patients. The Cottle Lab is equally committed to training the next generation of highly skilled and ethically responsible bioengineers through rigorous research experiences, professional development, mentorship, and community outreach.
Our mission is to train the next generation of scientists, engineers, and physician-researchers to develop innovative technologies and translational therapeutic strategies that improve the lives of patients with inherited metabolic and genetic diseases. Through interdisciplinary research, mentorship, and scientific innovation, we aim to advance safe and effective cell- and gene-based therapies while fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and ethical responsibility.
Our lab is in Rhodes Engineering Research Center at Clemson University in Clemson, SC.