Our laboratory specializes in cryo-EM-based cellular structural biology, with a primary focus on developing cryo-EM methodologies and applying them to study macromolecular assemblies.

1. We are interested in exploring the molecular mechanisms underlying membrane curvature maintenance by integrating in situ cryo-EM and cell biology techniques. Recently, we discovered that tetraspanin-7 induces and stabilizes tubular membrane structures by polymerizing into a spiral higher-order assembly—a structural framework we termed the “Transmembrane Skeleton” (bioRxiv, 2024).

2. We are interested in cryo-EM methodology development. Our lab pioneers innovative cryo-EM specimen preparation techniques by integrating functionalized nanomaterials—such as graphene and carbon nanotubes—to overcome key limitations in cryo-EM technique (Nat Methods, 2023; JACS, 2019, 2023; PNAS, 2024; Nat Commun, 2021, 2022, 2024; etc). We are also exploring AI-powered structural data analysis and mining approaches. These technologies will be further developed and applied in cryo-EM structural studies.