Researcher spotlight: Dr Tracy Liu

Working across the Centenary Institute and the Heart Research Institute (HRI), she is helping uncover the underlying mechanisms of a disease that affects up to one in three Australian adults.

Tracy’s research focuses on bioactive lipids, including cholesterol and how they drive fatty liver disease. These lipids are more than just stored fats, they act as ‘messenger’ fats, helping regulate essential processes such as inflammation, cell growth and tissue repair.

By studying how these lipids behave inside cells, Tracy aims to identify new treatment strategies and support the development of more precise, personalised therapies.

“Fatty liver disease is extremely complex and can progress to cirrhosis or liver cancer,” Tracy explains. “With limited treatment options available, a better understanding of how lipids drive disease progression could open new avenues for patients.”

Her motivation is deeply personal. Growing up, Tracy saw family members struggle with metabolic diseases, including fatty liver disease, an experience that continues to shape her research focus and commitment to improving outcomes.

Since beginning her PhD in 2020 at the Centenary Institute, Tracy has focused on fatty liver disease and liver cancer, completing her doctorate in 2024. She now continues as a postdoctoral researcher exploring new therapeutic approaches.

Looking ahead, Tracy hopes her research, alongside the broader Snow Program for Liver Health, will help prevent disease progression and improve metabolic health, benefiting individuals as well as the wider community.

Outside the lab, Tracy enjoys spending time with her cat, playing the guzheng and hiking.

“These all help me recharge and reset,” says Tracy. “Taking that time away from the lab is important, keeping me curious, creative and motivated in my research.”