Developing A Next-Generation Platform for FFPE Single-nucleus/Spatial Transcriptomics

Spatial Transcriptomics represents a paradigm shift in life science, delivering Digital Histology—the simultaneous quantification of the entire transcriptome while strictly preserving cellular anatomical context. This in situ genomic capability is essential for defining heterogeneous cellular neighborhoods and tracing intercellular communication. 

However, the reliance on formalin fixation introduces a critical bottleneck by creating extensive molecular crosslinks and adducts that severely diminish assay signals. It simultaneously compromises RNA quality within archival formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) clinical biobanks.

We are pioneering the next generation of spatial genomics by developing a novel technique, Fixative-eXchange (FX)-seq. This technique directly confronts existing barriers, delivering high-resolution spatial analysis from historically challenging FFPE samples. FX-seq maximizes the utility of archival tissues, fundamentally advancing genomic studies and human disease research. 

AI-based Antibody Design: Crafting Medicines with Digital Precision

The antibody is the cornerstone of modern therapeutics, but its discovery is often a slow, costly process, limited to effective candidates found by enormous effort. Therefore, we are pioneering a revolutionary approach: Digital Antibody Design.

​

We leverage cutting-edge Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI)—similar to models that create novel art and text—to invent de novo protein therapeutics. By training AI on the fundamental "language" of protein structure and function, we can rationally engineer new antibodies with custom properties. This capability moves beyond merely accelerating drug discovery, establishing a new paradigm of digital invention for smarter, more effective, and truly next-generation personalized treatments by employing novel foundation models trained with novel experimental data.​

Tissue-Expansion-based Super-resolution Microscopy | Advanced Multiplexed Imaging

Multi-omics constitutes the essential progression in biological research, moving beyond reductionist analysis of single molecular layers to achieve a holistic, integrated understanding of cellular state and function. Our laboratory pioneers the convergence of this rich molecular data with nanoscale spatial context. Specifically, we have developed exTEM (ACS Nano 2023).  This innovative imaging modality employs physical tissue expansion to provide nanometer-scale structural resolution, fundamentally surpassing the diffraction limits of conventional optical microscopy.

By seamlessly integrating these ultra-high-resolution images with comprehensive spatial gene and protein maps, we are directly enabling a new era of Digital Pathology. This multi-modal integration promises to fundamentally advance disease diagnosis and reveal core principles of life by delivering an accurate, unprecedented view of cellular architecture and molecular communication.