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Research Interest
Fluorescence Spectroscopy and Microscopy
Diving into the Glowing World: Unveiling Secrets from Molecules to Cells!
Unlocking hidden realms with the power of fluorescence spectroscopy! From lab experiments to bedside breakthroughs, we harness its sensitivity to excavate deep into the unknown. Our techniques include cutting-edge fluorescence spectroscopy and microscopy, guiding us through fundamental research and real-world applications. Crafting new frontiers, we synthesize unique small molecule fluorescent dyes and nanoparticles, each with its own mesmerizing photophysical traits. These probes navigate cellular landscapes, homing in on specific compartments or targeting precise proteins within live cells. Embarking on a journey through high-resolution fluorescence microscopy, we uncover the spatiotemporal dynamics of cellular organelles and individual proteins in real-time. For prolonged visual storytelling, we rely on the brilliance of fluorescent nanoparticle. Join us in this thrilling adventure! While our realm welcomes minds from organic and physical chemistry and cell biology, the doors remain open to all eager explorers.
Mechanobiology
Unveiling Nature's Mechanics: Exploring the Interplay of Force and Biology!
Enter the captivating world of mechanobiology, where scientists probe the interplay between mechanical forces and biological phenomena. This burgeoning field has surged in popularity, revealing astonishing, previously unseen outcomes. From single cells to vast, complex organisms comprising billions of cells, living systems navigate diverse physical landscapes throughout their lifetimes. Responding to the unique physical properties of their environments, cells dynamically adjust their behaviors. Within this realm, a myriad of cellular behaviors-ranging from cell migration and wound healing to immune cell activation and cancer cell transformations-are intricately tied to molecular-level force generation. Leveraging cutting-edge DNA technology and single-molecule fluorescence microscopy, we unravel the fundamental biological processes of endocytosis, phagocytosis, and cell migration at the molecular scale. Our expertise extends to detecting minute forces, down to an astonishing ~12 piconewton (pN) level, generated by cell membrane proteins like integrin, capturing these feats at single-molecule resolution in real-time. Through our state-of-the-art techniques, we delve into live cells, dissecting the physiological processes mentioned above with unparalleled precision.
Chemical Biology
"Revolutionizing Chemistry for Precision Medicine and Beyond!
At the heart of our scientific pursuit lies the exploration of protein-protein interactions, biomolecular dynamics, and the innovative re-purposing of enzymes. Our focus centers on the creation of bi-functional molecules with dual capabilities:
i. Triggering enzymatic reactions through proximity-driven chemistry: We engineer molecules capable of orchestrating an enzyme and a non-canonical substrate to converge on demand, compelling enzymatic reactions to occur through proximity-induced mechanisms.
ii. Targeting pathogenic or cancerous cells and leveraging the immune system for eradication: We craft bifunctional molecules derived from clinically approved drugs and specific binders. These compounds serve as beacons, homing in on pathogenic or cancerous cells, and subsequently engaging the immune system to eliminate potential threats.
Our methodology involves the synthesis of bifunctional molecules, harnessing the power of approved drugs and precise binders. Employing our 'addition-elimination' chemistry, we precisely target nucleophilic sites-such as cysteine, lysine, and others—on proteins, enabling a transformative approach to molecular engineering.
Join us in pushing the boundaries of traditional chemistry, as we navigate the realm of precision medicine and therapeutic innovation, unlocking new vistas in targeted therapies and biomedical advancements.
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