Research

The K.Lee Laboratory focuses on developing (1) novel hybrid nanocomposites for in situ imaging and sensing of biological processes; and (2) an imaging platform for tracking the phase behavior of biomolecular condensates. To that end, we use a correlative approach of multiple analytical tools of biochemical assays, spectroscopies, and microscopies to provide multi-faceted evidence to better regulate biological processes. The overarching goal of my lab is to provide fundamental insights into interfacial dynamics in order to facilitate the development of novel therapeutic strategies in the context of cancer immunotherapy and neurodegenerative diseases.

Inorganic/organic Hybrid Quantum Nanoprobes

Inorganic/organic Hybrid Nanocomposites: Liquid-crystalline nanoparticles (LCNP) + dopant NPs (yellow NPs embedded in LCNP) 

1. Anisotropic (i.e., orientation-dependent) physical, chemical, and optical properties

2. Quantum coupling effect of the dopant NPs

Applications: Translatable insights in diagnostics and therapeutics

1. On-the-fly nanosized-probe at the nanoparticle-cell interfaces 

2. Localized sensing of cellular responses to the changes in the surroundings 

1. An imaging platform for real-time tracking of biomolecular condensation (or aggregation) process

2. Translatable insights into the mechanisms of biomolecular condensations and the functions of the condensates in the context of neurodegenerative diseases