KE LAB
RESEARCH
Primary Areas of Interest
Complex DNA Self-Assembly
Self-assembly of DNA through Watson-Crick-Franklin base pairing and base stacking interactions lies at the heart of this exciting field. We are interested in exploring new ways and structures to assemble from DNA using fundamental design principles. Projects in this area of research include DNA origami mold for chiral assembly of nanoparticles, design and assembly of novel DNA lattice structures, and studying and controlling molecular interactions within nanostructures.
Biological and Biomedical
Applications
DNA being a biomolecule creates unlimited opportunities for using nanostructure in biological and biomedical systems. Here we develop nanostructures for bio-sensing, developing delivery systems, and studying small but powerful forces that drive processes in living systems. Some of the many projects exploring this area are: A shear stress sensing DNA nano reporter, studying interactions between mechanosensitive proteins, building hybrid nanostructures branching into synthetic biology, and developing biosensors for SARS-CoV2 and drug delivery systems.
Functional Nanomaterials and Molecular Nanomachines
We are excited to create new smart hybrid systems to harness the potentials of different functional materials. We have created nano systems, like DNA origami motors and nano actuators combining DNA nanotechnology with various nanoparticles, like gold, quantum dots, and bionanomaterials. Projects in this area include, investigation of co-assembly of DNA with peptides, use of DNA nanostructures to capture and organize carbon nanotubes and conductive proteins, and fabrication of patterned surfaces with DNA origami.
