Our Research Interests
Our GEL (Genome Engineering Laboratory) group works in two emerging areas of genomics; development of advanced technologies that can annotate and compare the predicted genes and gene functions of sequenced genomes at the molecular level, and the design of novel genomes and strategies for rational genetic analysis that serve as "integrated genome manipulation platforms" for answering basic life science issues and for improving natural living resources. |
Comparative Genomics & Genome Design
Genomes are a rich, diverse model system from which fundamental biochemical and biophysical rules for cell proliferation and differentiation can be inferred and applied to the design of engineered 'non-natural' genomes. The motivation for these studies is two-fold. First, to attain a better understanding of the extent of generality of the "genome blueprint" paradigm, by asking the question, "Can any well-designed genome that has a specific set of gene groups adopt a programmed cellular function?" Second, the investigation of the application of non-natural genomes as tools for biomedical and biotechnological uses. Our group is studying the architectural structures of different genomes by many novel methods used to characterize genome structure in natural living cells and investigating their various applications. |
Genome Engineering & Synthetic Biology
Genome engineering is a technique of immense practical importance in molecular biological and biomedical research. The GEL group is working to invent new strategies and designs for application to genome-wide DNA manipulation by introducing changes in the genetic program of a living cell and/or a living organism as well as by correcting an error or modifying the information it encodes. The group works on the design, creation, and biological characterization of genome-engineered organisms. In comparison to old-fashioned genetic engineering, genome engineering provides global surgery on DNA. The systematic quest for the comprehensive view of blueprint for whole genome will not only make the alteration more integrated, but also provide more rational for much faster, more efficient, and global change. |
