Summary of Research Interest
Our research integrates multiscale molecular simulations, polymer physics, advanced biophysical imaging, and organoid biology to uncover the physical principles governing protein organization and cellular architecture. We focus on four interconnected themes: the molecular basis of degeneration diseases, phase transitions driven by multivalent proteins and RNA, the behavior of tight junction and adherens junction proteins at cellular interfaces, and the molecular engineering of responsive biomaterials. Across these areas, our work combines computational design, in vitro reconstitution, high-resolution imaging, organoid systems, and in-cell measurements.
Epithelial Junctions and Cellular Interfaces
A central focus of the lab is understanding how epithelial barriers are built, maintained, and remodeled. We study the dynamic behaviors of tight and adherens junction proteins—including E-cadherin (ECAD), claudins, and ZO-1—to identify the molecular rules that govern their assembly, stability, and functional organization. These proteins form highly coordinated interaction networks essential for cell–cell adhesion, polarity, and barrier integrity.
We employ fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) to probe nanoscale protein interactions and biochemical environments, and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS) to measure molecular diffusion, clustering, and oligomerization. These quantitative tools enable high-resolution mapping of junctional dynamics within living cells.
Visualization of Intestinal Organoids Across Development
Intestinal organoids serve as a key model system in the lab. By examining fetal and adult-derived organoids, we characterize how epithelial junctional architecture matures during development. Using FLIM, FCS, and high-resolution 3D imaging, we:
visualize spatial patterns of ECAD, claudins, and ZO-1 throughout crypt- and villus-like domains
track the emergence of barrier properties during differentiation
quantify changes in protein interactions, mobility, and clustering across developmental stages
model how disruptions in junctional organization contribute to epithelial dysfunction
This developmental lens provides insight into how molecular-scale properties translate into tissue-level structure and resilience.
Biomolecular Phase Transitions and Intracellular Organization
Our group studies phase transitions mediated by multivalent proteins and RNA, including liquid–liquid phase separation, sol–gel transitions, and the formation of biomolecular condensates. Using multiscale computational approaches, we dissect the thermodynamic and kinetic principles that underlie condensate formation and explore how these transitions contribute to cellular organization, signaling, and adaptation.