Welcome to the Sun Lab!
Decoding Gene Regulation | Engineering Biomolecule
Welcome to the Sun Lab!
Decoding Gene Regulation | Engineering Biomolecule
The Sun Lab at Virginia Tech brings together biochemistry, RNA biology, chemical biology, and systems biology to understand how genes are regulated and how biomolecules function. We combine experimental and computational approaches to connect molecular interactions with biological outcomes.
We engineer proteins and RNA to investigate gene regulation and develop new capabilities for biological research and biotechnology. Our work spans RNA diversity and regulation, chemical tools for studying protein–RNA interactions, and biomolecular engineering, including CRISPR–Cas systems.
Research highlights
How do RNA diversity, processing, and stability shape biological function? We use sequencing and quantitative analysis to investigate the mechanisms that regulate gene expression.
How can chemistry reveal molecular interactions in living cells? We develop genetically encoded chemical tools, including GECX-RNA, to capture protein–RNA interactions and investigate their functions.
How can engineered molecular interactions create new biological capabilities? We engineer proteins and RNA–protein complexes, including CRISPR–Cas systems, for molecular targeting and biotechnology.