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Our Research

A central focus of our lab is to define how cellular metabolism connects with RNA regulation. Building on our discovery of a link between heme metabolism and small RNA pathways, we investigate how distinct regulatory networks communicate within cells, determine the biological significance of this crosstalk, and explore its translational potential.​

 

To address these questions, we integrate molecular biology, biochemistry, advanced imaging, high-throughput sequencing, and large-scale genetic and genomic approaches. By combining biochemical approaches with bioinformatic analyses, we aim to uncover novel layers of RNA regulation governed by metabolic signals.

 

Our work is driven by curiosity, built on rigor and reproducibility, and strengthened by an open, collaborative spirit.

Metabolism-RNA Communication
Metabolite-driven RNA regulation is well established in lower organisms but remains largely unexplored in mammals. We seek to determine whether analogous mechanisms operate in human cells. Our overarching goal is to uncover a new dimension of post-transcriptional gene regulation that links cellular metabolism to RNA function, thereby providing fundamental insights into human biology and revealing new therapeutic opportunities for cancer and other diseases.
Small RNAs, including miRNAs and siRNAs, represent a promising new class of therapeutic molecules. By elucidating the mechanisms that govern intracellular RNA interference (RNAi) activity, we aim to develop innovative strategies to enhance the efficacy of RNAi-based medicines. Our research seeks to overcome current limitations in RNAi therapeutics and expand their application across diverse biomedical contexts, including cancer, aging, and other diseases.
Improving Intracellular RNAi
© Lee Lab
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