Research Interests
Our laboratory utilizes both computational and experimental biology to identify novel regulators such as long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs in the pathogenesis of liver and liver-related diseases. We are applying bioinformatics, genetics, genomics, biochemistry, molecular biology, cellular biology, and CRISPR-mediated genome engineering to explore the complex regulatory networks of disease development. The ultimate goal is to develop novel therapeutics such as RNA therapy to treat human diseases including but not limited to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), hepatocellular carcinoma, and atherosclerosis.
Current Projects:
1) Molecular pathology of liver diseases
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has emerged as the most common cause of chronic liver disease. The clinicopathological spectrum of NAFLD ranges from simple hepatic steatosis to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Without effective intervention, NASH can eventually progress to end-stage liver diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. We aim to identify the key molecular drivers in the pathogenesis of these liver diseases.
2) Noncoding RNAs in atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis is the dominant cause of cardiovascular disease. Atherosclerosis is characterized by accumulated lipid plaques on the artery wall, primarily composed of cholesterol. The liver is the central organ in cholesterol metabolism and plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Noncoding RNAs (e.g. lncRNA and circRNA) have emerged as important cholesterol metabolism regulators. We aim to identify the key noncoding RNAs in cholesterol metabolic pathways in the liver and the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis.
3) RNA or RNA targeted therapies
Our current therapeutic options for metabolic diseases such as fatty liver disease, obesity, and diabetes are very limited. By using AAV, siRNA, and antisense oligo, we aim to develop novel RNA-based therapeutics for disease treatment.
Education, Training & Credentials
- Research Fellowship, NHLBI, NIH, Bethesda, MD, 2018
- Postdoctoral Fellowship, NHLBI, NIH, Bethesda, MD, 2015
- Postdoctoral Fellowship, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 2011
- PhD, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China, 2010
- BS, Biological Sciences, Sichuan Agricultural University, Sichuan, China, 2005
Honors & Awards
- 2021, DOD Discovery Award
- 2018, NHLBI K22 Career Transition Award
- 2017, NHLBI Director’s Award
- 2017, NHLBI Orloff Science Award
- 2016, Young Investigator Award, NIH Asian and Pacific Islander American Organization