In my laboratory, multidisciplinary approaches have been undertaken. Those approaches include molecular genetics, cell biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, immunology, chemical biology, pharmacology, functional genomics and proteomics as well as transgenic animals. Currently, we are focusing on the following research areas:
Inducible Negative Feedback Regulation of Inflammation.We recently found that CYLD, a deubiquitinase, acts as an inducible negative feedback regulator for inflammation. Our studies provide novel insights into the tight regulation of inflammation and may lead to the identification of novel therapeutic targets. Our future studies will focus on identifying the novel molecular targets of CYLD and the underlying signaling mechanisms involved in inflammatory and infectious diseases. We will also investigate the mechanisms by which CYLD is induced.
Regulation of Host Survival in S. pneumoniae and Influenza Infections. Streptococcus pneumoniae (S.p.) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. It is a major cause of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) and also considered as a significant cause of a secondary infection associated with influenza virus infections. It is unclear why the mortality rate remains very high at an early stage. We recently found that CYLD plays a critical role in potentiating the S. pneumoniae-induced lethality. We are currently focusing on investigating the molecular targets and the underlying signaling mechanisms by which CYLD regulates S. pneumoniae-induced lethality.
Regulation of Mucus Overproduction in Bacterial Infections. Mucus overproduction is a hallmark of upper respiratory tract infections. How mucus is up-regulated remains largely unknown. We recently have identified several positive signaling pathways involved in mucus overproduction. We are currently focusing on determining the negative regulators involved in preventing overactive mucus overproduction and further exploring their translational potential.
Development of Novel Therapeutic Agents for Inflammatory and Infectious Diseases. Taking advantage of drug repositioning strategy, we recently discovered that Vinpocetine, a well-known natural product, acts as a potent anti-inflammatory agent. Vinpocetine was originally discovered nearly 30 years ago and has been approved for other clinical applications. Its already approved excellent safety and toxicity profile will significantly reduce clinical trial risk and time as well as the cost for drug development. We are currently working on further developing Vinpocetine into an anti-inflammatory therapeutic agent. In addition, we are also working on developing novel therapeutic agents for inhibiting mucus overproduction and reducing lethality.