KOSEN 한인과학기술자네트워크

My laboratory is studying the chemical senses of the brain. The chemical senses have been spotlighted since Drs. Axel and Buck were awarded the Noble Prize in 2004 due to their pioneer works identifying odorant receptors and olfactory processes. Our laboratory is studying the processes of the olfaction using molecular, cellular and morphological approaches. Moreover we are applying our research into the biomedical and bioengineering applications for the medical uses such as stem cell therapy and anti-neurodegenerative drug discovery or improvement of our quality of life such as biosensors. [1] Structure and functions of olfactory systems: Our laboratory tries to understand the signal processes of olfaction in the brain. This includes the detection of processes and networking of olfaction-related neurons in the brain using the electron microscopy and the molecular mechanisms underlying the signal transduction pathways of chemical sensation. [2] Developmental neuroscience using olfactory systems: In this topic, we will determine the fundamental mechanisms of neuronal development by using the olfactory sensory neurons as a regeneration model system and by focusing on the protection mechanisms of the olfactory sensory neurons against oxidative stresses, toxic chemical insults etc. [3] Bioengineering of the olfactory systems: We are developing novel chemical sensing devices which enable to discriminate thousands of different chemicals based on our current knowledge about the olfactory system. We approach this by the convergence technology combined with BT, IT, and NT.