Research interests

Our research interests are highly interdisciplinary. We integrate chemistry, molecular biology, materials science, and medicine to solve important biomedical problems. Our main interest is to synthesize and engineer functional molecules that are useful for basic science, materials, and medical applications.

Follow the links below for more detailed descriptions of current research interests.

	Improving the function of high-density lipoprotein (HDL). We are developing orally efficacious peptides that interact with and modulate the function of HDLs, as a potential approach for treating cardiovacular disease.
	Development of histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors. We design, synthesize, and characterize small molecule HDAC inhibitors as potential treatments for cancer, cystic fibrosis, and neurodegenerative diseases.
	Next generation DNA sequencing. We explore novel approaches for sequencing DNA using protein nanopores, to allow faster and cheaper sequencing for basic research and personalized medicine.
	Systems chemistry and origins of life research. We investigate how complex chemical networks could have arisen from simple, basic organic molecules, as an approach to understanding the origins and early evolution of life.
	Intrasterically regulated enzymes. We design and engineer enzymes that can be programmed to switch on and off in response to chemical signals, for use in diagnostics and medical applications.
	Self-assembling cyclic peptide nanotubes.We engineer peptides that can reversibly assemble into organic nanotubes, with applications as novel materials and antibacterial or antiviral agents.