Develop new bioinformatic pipelines for NP discovery
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Our research focuses on leveraging cutting-edge bioinformatic techniques to unlock the untapped potential of natural products, with a specific emphasis on the discovery of antibiotics.By incorporating extensive knowledge of natural product structures and biosynthesis to establish sophisticated bioinformatic pipelines, we aim to reveal the vast chemical space of NPs and their biosynthesis, leading to the identification of novel compounds with potent antibiotic properties. Our work is at the forefront of the genomics era of natural products research, and we are committed to advancing the field through our innovative approach and dedication to discovering new therapeutic agents.
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Biosynthesis and bioengineering of peptide antibiotics
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Ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides (RiPPs) are one of the largest but primarily underexplored natural products for antibiotic discovery, and our research program aims to access their untapped biosynthetic potential through big-data genome mining and synthetic biology. Our approach involves harnessing the enzymatic potential of RiPP biosynthesis to bioengineer new-to-nature analogs with improved characteristics, such as increased activity, reduced toxicity, and a novel mode of action. Our long-term goal is to contribute to the development of more effective and sustainable antibiotic therapies.
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Link the microbiota-NPs to human health
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Our research program investigates the metabolic crosstalk within microbial kingdoms and with the host to understand its impact on microbiome homeostasis and host physiology. Leveraging recent advances in biosynthetic and omics analysis, we aim to identify functional microbe-derived NPs that contribute to human microbiome homeostasis and health. Additionally, we aim to harness the biosynthetic potential of the human microbiome to enhance the reservoir of potentially therapeutic small molecules and address the global threat of multi-drug resistant superbug.
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