|
|
|
|||||
 |
         |
||||
 Tae H. JiProfessor of Chemistry
|
|||||
Research interestsHuman Brain: We are investigating the gene expression in the various functional regions of the human brain such as the hippocampus and cerebellum. We have discovered, using the cutting edge DNA chips and proteomics, that the difference in their gene expression is strikingly. These differentially expressed genes are likely responsible for the distinct functions of the individual brain regions, and we want to know what they do. In addition, the gene expression differs dramatically between the Alzheimer's and control brains. No wonder why Alzheimer's patients suffer. Hormone Receptors: The differentially expressed genes include hormone receptors. Cells including endocrine and nerve cells generally communicate with other cells and tissues through their hormone receptors present on the cell surface. Our lab is one of the leading laboratories in the world in the studies on how hormones interact with their receptors, activate them, and to generate hormone signals. There are hundreds of different external hormones and each of them triggers more than one specific signal. These hormones have to bind and activate their receptors on the cell surface, which will trigger hormone actions. Mutations in hormone receptors can cause human disorders and diseases. Despite the importance, little is known about how a hormone receptor generates a specific hormone signal and how it generates more than one signal. We have discovered that the receptors are like an integrated circuit consisting of numerous nano-switches. Some of the amino acids in the receptors are involved in processing and turning On and OFF various signals during receptor activation. We hope that such information lead us to control hormone actions, disorders and diseases.
PublicationsMore Information on our Research GroupPostdoctoral Positions |
|
||||
|
 |
|
|
|
 |
||||