Washington University in St. Louis (WU)
My research focuses on understanding the structure, function, and regulation of SPFH family proteins, including podocin, flotillin, and prohibitin, in the context of membrane organization and disease. Using cryo-EM and cryo-ET, I investigate how these proteins shape membrane microdomains, facilitate vesicle trafficking, and regulate cellular signaling. A major focus is elucidating podocin’s structure and its role in pediatric kidney diseases, as well as exploring flotillin and prohibitin’s involvement in immune cell regulation and autoimmune diseases. By integrating structural biology with functional assays and clinical insights, my work aims to uncover fundamental mechanisms of membrane biology and their implications for disease pathogenesis, ultimately guiding the development of novel therapeutic strategies.