Our laboratory is specialized in structural proteomics, and uses it to study the functions of important bio-systems. Our primary methodologies are high-throughput synchrotron protein crystallography, proteomics as well as bioinformatics. Other advanced technologies, e.g., NMR spectroscopy, SAXS, EM, biophysical or immunological methods are used if necessary. The following domains are our primary interests:
Structural enzymology: Several enzymes as potential targets for drug discovery are under investigation. For developing new antibiotics, we focused on prenyltransferases. For anticancer agents, we analyzed phosphatases (in signal transduction). Studies of potential targets for diabetics and Alzheimer’s disease are also in progress.
Protein-DNA interactions: Besides investigating the effect of small drug molecules in gene transcription, we further devoted to another new gene regulation mechanism by DNA mimic proteins.
Causative microorganisms and cancer: In these issues, we focused on the regulation of bacterial anti-drug gene and biofilm as well as the cancer-related kinases and phosphatases.
Development of potential pharmaceutical proteins: We also involved in the protein drug discovery by investigating membrane proteins, antigens and antibodies.