Mass spectrometry (MS)-based shotgun proteomics has become the predominant proteomics strategy and plays important roles in various areas of research, including profiling active protein sites of reactive small molecules, and identification and functional studies of protein post-translational modifications (PTMs). My lab will focus on advancing proteomic technologies to unlock deeper insights into the complex world of proteome. In combination with cutting-edge chemical and molecular tools, we aim to explore the intricate mechanisms of protein PTMs involved in cellular processes and disease pathogenesis to identify biomarkers, and discover novel therapeutic targets and drugs. Specifically, my lab’s vision encompasses three major directions:

1) Novel proteomics strategies to illuminate the “dark proteome”

2) Chemical proteomics aided mechanism and functional study of protein PTMs. Our short term focus will be studying lysine lactylation and unlocking the potential of targeting the lactylation pathway for drug development in diseases such as cancers and neurodegenerative diseases;

3) Drug discovery powered by chemical proteomics methods, particularly focusing on protein/DNA-binding peptide drugs and natural products. 

We are enthusiastic about collaborating with researchers from variety fields and are eagerly offering our expertise in both wet and dry proteomics to serve the research community. If you are interested in learning more about our work and discussing intriguing ideas, please do not hesitate to reach out!