Illuminating Gene Expression with Single-Molecule Precision
The Li Lab seeks a molecular understanding of how cells control gene expression in space and time. We use state-of-the-art single-molecule imaging techniques to study the precise localization of mRNAs and proteins, and to understand how their mislocalization leads to disease.
For instance, in yeast, approximately 20% of all mRNAs are targeted to the surfaces of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and mitochondria, where they are translated to support organelle biogenesis and homeostasis. Mislocalization of mRNAs disrupts these processes and contributes to cellular dysfunction and disease.
We aim to uncover the mechanisms that regulate the spatial organization of gene expression, and determine the consequences of its dysregulation.