Research

The NanoBiology Lab focuses on several key research areas, including biosensing, biomolecular self-assembly, host-pathogen interactions, and cellular heterogeneity. In biosensing, the lab develops advanced diagnostic tools and lab-on-chip devices for rapid, on-site disease detection, which are crucial for managing outbreaks and personalized medicine. This includes PCR-free nucleic acid tests and smartphone-based assays for detecting antibiotics like kanamycin. Additionally, the lab works on cost-effective lab-on-chip devices for cell counting and novel methods for droplet generation in microfluidic systems.

In the realm of biomolecular self-assembly, researchers explore the assembly mechanisms of macromolecular structures such as pore-forming toxins and viral components, providing insights into pathogen virulence and host-pathogen interactions. The lab uses advanced techniques like total-internal-reflection fluorescence microscopy to study these processes. Host-pathogen interaction research delves into the dynamics of viral infections, using next-generation sequencing and mathematical models to understand viral evolution and immune responses. The lab also investigates cellular heterogeneity, particularly how differences among cells affect infection outcomes and antimicrobial resistance, employing both experimental and modeling approaches to uncover new therapeutic strategies.