THE SUN LAB
Our Research
Decipher cell signaling at the membrane interface to provide molecular insights into human diseases and novel strategies for therapeutic interventions.
NADPH Oxidases and Redox Biology
Maintenance of the reactive oxygen species (ROS) homeostasis is essential to preserve cell integrity and is thus vital for the survival and growth of almost all life. Research in our lab aims to understand
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the architecture of mammalian ROS-generating enzymes, NADPH oxidases
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the activation and regulation mechanism underlying NADPH oxidases
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how to target NADPH oxidases for disease treatment
LRRK2 Signaling and Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson's Disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease. LRRK2 signaling plays a key role in the pathogenesis of both familial and sporadic PD cases. In our lab, we focus on two fundamental questions to understand the role of LRRK2 kinase in PD. 1) How do LRRK2 mutations lead to PD? 2) How can we target LRRK2 for PD treatment?
KCNQ1 Channel and Cardiac Rhythm
Ion channels conduct electron signals across the cell membrane and are essential for almost all physiological processes. KCNQ1 is the pore-forming subunit of IKs channel complexes and conducts the cardiac slow delayed rectifier current. Mutations in the kcnq1 gene are the leading cause of generic long-QT syndromes and cause sudden death to 3000-4000 young kids in US per year. We dissect the working mechanism of KCNQ1 and its modulation by different cellular signals.