Research

Our current research project is to develop a portable sensor and a screening assay applicable to the forensic science field. This type of sensing will complement rigorous instrumental analysis that often requires long and cumbersome sample preparation steps. We are particularly interested in applying the sensor for the detection of illegal drugs or their metabolites in various types of biological samples. We will employ several different approaches to minimize false signals while improving the detection limit and sensitivity of target analytes present in a complex biological matrix. Currently, our research is focused on the applications of Au or Ag nanoparticles for a Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS)-based sensor.

We are also interested in developing new analytical methods or tools for understanding physical and biological behaviors of cell systems. The interactions between a cell and its microenvironments, such as other cells, surface, small molecules, and proteins are essential cue signals that can determine cell development including proliferation, differentiation, migration, and apoptosis. The precise control of the microenvironments of cells is necessary to isolate and identify multiple factors affecting the behavior of cells. Recent introduction of microfabrication technology, such as microfluidics and micropatterning, in cell biology gives us new insights and approaches to understand the complex behaviors of cells. Our research will be focused on elucidating the cellular behavior in response to external stimuli and extracellular communication using either whole cells or a model system that can represent specific functions of cells. Surface and material science integrated with microfabrication technology will be appropriately introduced to enhance specific biomolecular interaction and biocompatibility, reduce nonspecific adhesion, and control microenvironments of biomolecules of interests.

Here is a list of lab equipment available in our lab.

• Biotek Synergy H1 microplate reader

• Perkin Elmer LS50B spectrofluorometer

• Zeiss AX10 Inverted Epifluorescence microscope

• Laurell WS-400BZ-6NPP spin coater

• Harrick Plasma PDC-32G cleaner

• EXO Life Science OMNICURE S-2000 UV lamp

• Millipore 18 megaohm deionizer

In addition to these, we can access to a variety of analytical instruments in our newly renovated science and mathematics building (SAMC).