Autism and eczema are two common conditions affecting 85 million children globally. The negative impact on the life quality of these children and families are beyond imagination. Research have shown that gut bacteria (microbiota) play a vital role in conditions such as colon cancer, obesity, dementia, eczema and autism. By mapping individual profiles of good and bad bacteria, we can identify novel diagnostic biomarkers for early detection and offer personalized microbial replacement therapy to prevent or improve conditions including autism and eczema.

The D. H. Chen Foundation (the “Foundation”), a devout advocate in medical research and development, partnered with the Faculty of Medicine of The Chinese University of Hong Kong (“CUHK”) to launch The D. H. Chen Foundation Hub of Advanced Technology for Child Health (“HATCH”) in 2021. The goal of this project is to generate patent-protected innovations through microbiome research that can be turned into applications, enhancing early detection and improving treatment outcomes of children’s autism and eczema.

Talent development, education and community outreach are all important for scientific innovations to be more sustainable and impactful. Therefore, these become essential parts of HATCH. Located at Hong Kong Science Park, HATCH nurtures young talents and researchers by inviting young generations to develop their interests or even a career in microbiota research and the promotion of medical entrepreneurship. Not only can they get hands-on laboratory experience, these young talents can gain latest industry knowledge from multi-disciplinary leaders and be trained to become health ambassadors to enhance gut health awareness in our community. 

With the cutting-edge innovations in microbial diagnostics and replacement therapies, the Foundation believes HATCH can bring health and hope to our future generation through research, education, and community outreach to our children.