Research
We develop molecular scale nanoparticle imaging technologies to study how the interactions of millions of signaling molecules organize and effect end cell signaling function. In tandem, we are translating this knowledge to develop single molecule technologies in the fields of personalized diagnostics ad ultrasensitive proteomics. Our work uses a multidisciplinary approach that draws from neuroscience, chemistry and biophysics and is seated in the emerging fields of bio-nanotechnology and nanomedicine.
Miniaturized ultrasensitive imaging platforms for single cell drug screening in cancer and infectious disease
In collaboration with Knight Cancer Institute and Oregon National Primate Center, our lab has developed a technology for the multiplexed quantification of proteins in single cells with exceptionally sensitive evaluation of the drug response. The assay utilizes direct discrete probe quantification without the need of additional amplification.
We are translating this platform technology for high throughput, personalized screening of drug candidates in leukemia and sensitive detection of disease burden in HIV and other infectious diseases. The platform has miniaturized, sensitive detection allowing testing of cancer samples from patients with many drugs.
Left: Molecular detection of HIV using the miniaturized ultrasensitive imaging platform.
Dissecting spatiotemporal dynamics of receptor signaling
In collaboration with OHSU Center for Spatial Systems Biomedicine, we are employing single molecule imaging techniques with quantum dots and other dyes to extract information on protein location and motion in the intracellular environment of cells in order to understand cellular signaling. This includes, study of the spatiotemporal dynamics of ERB receptors in breast cancer, and neurotrophin growth factor signaling in the nervous system.
