Research Interests

The long-term goal of our research program is to contribute to biomedical science and technology through basic science research. Specifically, our research interests focus on the binding and mimicry of cell-surface molecules for bioanalytical, pharmaceutical and biomedical applications.

The main research interests in our groups are in the following three areas:

1. Functional glyco-affinity ligand engineering: For proteomics and glycomics, pathogen and biomarker identification, and antimicrobial drug development applications.
2. Cytomimetic antithrombotics: To explore vascular pathological and surgical interventional sites-local/targeted antithrombotics.
3. Biological and cellular chemistry: To develop site-specific/chemo- and bio-orthogonal and live cell compatible approaches for biomolecules, biomaterials and cells modification and functionalization.

   Robust chemical modification techniques that preserve and even enhance the activity of biomolecules have many potential applications. Appropriate surface functionalization remains a critical variable for the optimal performance of a wide range of implantable medical devices and transplantation cells. In this project, we want to develop efficient, chemoselective and biocompatible biomolecule functionalization methods for biomedical research and applications. Currently, we are investigating Staudinger ligation, click chemistry and aqueous Diels-Alder reaction combined with poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) chemistry for chemo-/bio-orthogonal, site-specific and biocompatible functionalization of biomolecules such as proteins, peptides, and carbohydrates as well cells. These researches will find potential applications in microarray, biosensor, medical device implantation, drug delivery, bioimaging, and cell transplantation.