Da Han Email & Phone Number

My Ph.D will report the development of “smart” DNA systems for intelligent diagnosis and therapy on the molecular level via molecular engineering method.Current studies reveal that many diseases are characterized by abnormal behaviors on the molecular level, such as deviant gene expression. Exploring “smart” molecular tools that can perform intelligent diagnostic and therapeutic functions can meet the key criteria for effective and successful treatment. Specifically, to define the “smart” molecular systems, we believe they should have the properties such as, 1) rapid and specific recognition of disease-related biomarkers for sensitive diagnosis, 2) precise control of drug release with temporal and spatial resolution for effective therapy, and 3) inhibition of drug side effects for rapid recovery. To accomplish these objectives, Nucleic acid-based functional tools hold the greatest promise due to their stability, programmability, regulation of biological reactions. In my thesis, I will focus on engineering nucleic acid-based system, including DNA and RNA, into smart molecular tools for theranostics, i.e., diagnostic therapy, a key part of personalized medicine: 1) DNA aptamer-based system for accurate identification of specific cancer cells, 2) Photo-controllable DNA platform for smart drug delivery, and 3) DNA circuit for self-regulatory inhibition of drug side effect.

Listed skills include Drug Delivery, Data Analysis, Spectroscopy, Characterization, and 10 others.