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Research summary
We focus on advancing the frontiers of synthetic biology to solve energy, environment, agriculture, and health challenges. Our research integrates protein engineering and microbial cell factory to develop innovative biological solutions.
We specialize in engineering proteins and microbial strains through synthetic biology approaches, aiming to create efficient and sustainable systems for the production of high-value compounds. Our work encompasses the development of diverse genetic parts, optimization of protein secretion systems, and the construction of microbial platforms capable of producing eco-friendly, value-added bioproducts at high yields.
Through the combination of synthetic biology, metabolic engineering, protein engineering, and systems biology, we strive to contribute to solving global environmental issues while expanding the potential of bio-based industries.
Corynebacterium glutamicum
Corynebacterium glutamicum is a non-pathogenic, Gram-positive bacterium that has been widely used in the industrial production of amino acids. Recognized as a GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) organism by the FDA. Due to its well-characterized genetics, high tolerance to metabolic burdens, and low extracellular protease activity, C. glutamicum has emerged as a promising microbial host for the efficient secretion of heterologous proteins. Its ability to secrete target proteins directly into the culture medium simplifies downstream processing and makes it an attractive alternative to conventional hosts.
Protein engineering
Our laboratory combines directed evolution and rational design to engineer proteins with enhanced performance. We construct enzyme libraries via random mutagenesis and apply FACS-based high-throughput screening to select improved variants. In parallel, we use molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, structure-based modeling, and molecular docking to rationally design and optimize protein functions. These approaches enable the development of efficient biocatalysts for industrial and medical use.
Synthetic biology
Our laboratory develops and characterizes synthetic genetic parts—including promoters, ribosome binding sites (RBSs), terminators, and bicistronic systems—to build finely tunable gene expression systems. We construct various genetic circuits for precise control of cellular behavior, with a particular focus on engineering biosensors. These biosensors are integrated with FACS-based high-throughput screening (HTS) platforms to enable rapid selection of desired phenotypes. All of these efforts are incorporated into a Design–Build–Test–Learn (DBTL) cycle, allowing systematic optimization and acceleration of synthetic biology workflows. Through this approach, we aim to advance the design and application of programmable biological systems.
Metabolic engineering
Our laboratory engineers diverse microbial hosts—Corynebacterium glutamicum, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas putida, Klebsiella oxytoca, Leuconostoc citreum, and Komagataeibacter xylinus—to produce a wide range of value-added products. Through metabolic pathway optimization and module integration, we have developed strains for the production of fine and bulk chemicals, therapeutic proteins, and industrial enzymes, enabling efficient and sustainable biomanufacturing.
Genome/Chassis engineering
Our laboratory develops and applies advanced genomic tools for metabolic engineering and synthetic biology. We utilize MAGE (Multiplex Automated Genome Engineering), CRISPR-Cas systems, and λ-Red recombinase to perform precise and efficient genome modifications for pathway optimization and strain development. In parallel, we are actively engaged in chassis engineering, including both genome minimization to eliminate non-essential functions and adaptive laboratory evolution (ALE) to enhance stress tolerance and overall cellular performance. These strategies enable the construction of robust microbial platforms.
Development of bioprocess
Our laboratory focuses on developing scalable and efficient bioprocesses for microbial production. We have established scale-up fermentation process for seamless transition from lab to pilot scale. To improve stability and reduce costs, we apply cell immobilization and recycling techniques. We also employ whole-cell bioconversion, using engineered microbes to convert renewable substrates into valuable products. These strategies support sustainable and industrially relevant biomanufacturing.
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