Medical School
Twin Cities
This research focuses on the structural and molecular basis of human diseases including virus infections and cancer. The main line of research examines the invasion mechanisms of viruses. The researchers investigate the structures and functions of virus-surface proteins that mediate receptor recognition and cell entry of viruses.
A second line of research explores the structural basis for cancer. Specifically, the group investigates the structures and functions of mammalian-cell-surface enzymes that are critical for tumor cell growth and invasion.
Based on these structural studies, the researchers further develop novel therapy strategies to treat human diseases. Their research tools include X-ray crystallography, cryo-electron microscopy, protein biochemistry, and vaccine and drug designs.
Research by this group was featured on the MSI website in:
- March 2017: Structural Comparisons of Two Receptors for Mouse Coronavirus
- June 2015: Targeting Drugs to Tumors.