Research Interests

Structural analysis of the virulence factors in Vibrio pathogens

Pathogenic Vibrio species secrete various virulence factors that enable them to invade host tissues and establish infections. Among these, pore-forming toxins represent a key class of cytolytic proteins capable of self-assembling into membrane-inserting complexes that disrupt host cell integrity. Our team investigates the molecular mechanisms that govern toxin secretion, membrane targeting, and pore formation. By solving high-resolution structures of these toxins in both pre-assembly and assembled states, we aim to delineate the conformational transitions and functional domains involved in host recognition and membrane perforation. These insights are crucial for understanding bacterial pathogenesis and developing novel intervention strategies for public health and aquaculture disease control.

Biochemical characterization of the phytochemical transporters 

To adapt to changing environmental conditions, plants rely on the distribution of diverse hormones and phytochemicals to regulate growth, defense, and developmental processes. These molecules must be transported across cellular membranes with high specificity and precision. Our research focuses on identifying and characterizing transporter proteins that mediate the selective uptake and translocation of such signaling molecules. Through biochemical reconstitution, mutagenesis, and structural determination, we seek to understand how these transporters discriminate between structurally similar substrates and how their transport activity is regulated. Ultimately, this knowledge can be translated into strategies for improving crop yield and resilience while reducing chemical fertilizer usage—advancing the goals of sustainable agriculture.