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Research Interest
Our Laboratory focuses on developing biosensors and advanced imaging techniques to study the mechanisms of cellular processes. The lab's research aims to deepen our understanding of the regulation and communication of signaling pathways within cells, as well as the role of mechanical forces in cellular processes. The lab's research is highly interdisciplinary, drawing from areas such as biochemistry, molecular biology, and biophysics to design new biosensors and imaging technologies. Ultimately, the lab's research seeks to address important biological questions and improve our ability to diagnose and treat diseases such as cancer.
Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) is a powerful technique used to measure distances between two molecules, or to study the interactions between them. FRET is based on the transfer of energy from a donor fluorophore to an acceptor fluorophore. When the donor and acceptor are in close proximity, the donor will transfer its energy to the acceptor, resulting in the emission of light from the acceptor. FRET is widely used in a variety of applications, such as in the study of protein-protein interactions, DNA-protein interactions, and enzyme-substrate interactions. It is also used to measure the distance between two molecules, such as in the study of protein conformational changes. FRET has been used to study the dynamics of the cell membrane, and the dynamics of the cytoskeleton. Additionally, FRET is used to study the interactions between small molecules and proteins, and to study the folding and unfolding of proteins.
A genetically encoded FRET biosensors are a type of biosensor that utilizes the Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) phenomenon to detect changes in the environment. FRET biosensors are composed of two fluorescent molecules that are in close proximity to one another. When a signal molecule binds to the biosensor, the energy transfer between the two fluorescent molecules changes, resulting in a change in the fluorescence emission of the biosensor. FRET biosensors can be used to detect a wide range of analytes, including proteins, enzymes, ions, and small molecules. They are highly sensitive and can be used to measure changes in the environment with great accuracy. FRET biosensors are also highly specific, meaning that they can be used to detect a specific analyte in a complex mixture. Due to their high sensitivity and specificity, FRET biosensors are widely used in research and medical applications, such as drug screening and disease diagnosis.
Live single-cell imaging is a powerful tool for studying the behavior of individual cells in real time. It allows researchers to observe the dynamic processes of a single cell and its components over a period of time. This technique is used to gain insights into how a cell functions and how it responds to different stimuli. It can also be used to observe the effects of drugs or other treatments on a single cell. Live single-cell imaging is a valuable tool for understanding the complexity of cell biology.
Mechanotransduction is the process by which physical forces, such as pressure, tension, and strain, are converted into biochemical signals within a cell. It is a critical process that allows cells to sense and respond to their environment. Mechanotransduction is mediated by specialized proteins, called mechanosensors, which are embedded in the cell membrane. These mechanosensors are able to detect changes in the physical environment and convert them into biochemical signals that are then transmitted to the cell’s interior. This process allows cells to respond to changes in their environment, such as changes in temperature, pressure, or mechanical stress, and to adapt accordingly.
Cell-ECM interaction is the process by which cells interact with the extracellular matrix (ECM). This interaction is essential for the development and maintenance of healthy tissues, as it allows cells to receive signals from the ECM and respond accordingly. The ECM is made up of a variety of proteins, carbohydrates, and other molecules. Cells interact with the ECM through a variety of mechanisms, including direct contact with the ECM, secretion of molecules that interact with the ECM, and receptor-mediated signaling. These interactions allow cells to sense their environment, regulate their growth and differentiation, and migrate to new locations. Cell-ECM interaction is an integral part of normal tissue development and maintenance, and disruption of this interaction can lead to a variety of diseases.
High-throughput drug screening is a method used to rapidly test large numbers of compounds or samples in order to identify those with the desired properties or characteristics. This method is used to quickly and efficiently test a large number of samples in order to find the best solution to a particular problem. High-throughput screening can be used in a variety of fields, including drug discovery, materials science, and biotechnology. It is a valuable tool that enables scientists to quickly identify compounds or samples that have the desired properties, thus saving time and resources.
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