CHEN, Gang |
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Assistant Professsor Education: B.Sc., University of Science and Technology of China (USTC); Ph.D., University of Rochester; Post-doc: University of California, Berkeley, The Scripps Research Institute Research Area: Biophysical Chemistry; Single-Molecule Detection and Nanomanipulation; RNA Structures, Properties, and Functions; Therapeutics Targeting RNA Phone: (65) 6592 2549 |
Research Interest The functions of RNA include coding (for protein, RNA, and DNA), gene regulation, catalysis, and immunomodulation. The overall goal of Gang CHEN research group is to better understand the structures and the physical-chemical properties of RNAs and RNA-ligand complexes to provide deeper insight into and to facilitate precise control of the diverse biological functions involving RNA. The research projects of current interests are: (1) characterizing the molecular recognition interactions (e.g., hydrogen bonding and aromatic base stacking) accounting for structure, stability, and dynamics of RNA structural building blocks such as internal loops, hairpins, triplexes, and pseudoknots, (2) probing the complex energy landscapes of RNA folding and assembly with protein, and (3) designing and discovering therapeutic ligands (small molecules, oligonucleotides, peptides, and peptide nucleic acids) targeting RNA and RNA-protein complex. We employ various conventional and cutting-edge biophysical, biochemical, and bioorganic techniques including laser optical tweezers, NMR, UV-Vis, bulk and single-molecule fluorescence, SPR, ITC, chemical synthesis of oligonucleotides, PCR, gel electrophoresis, and in vitro transcription. The research experience in the laboratory will help the students to grasp fundamental knowledge and experimental skills, to develop learning skills such as rigorous reasoning and innovative thinking, and to be able to ask and answer important questions within and beyond chemical and molecular sciences. |
Selected Representative Publications
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