Research on Baculovirus Protein Engineering and Influenza Virus Mimic Systems

This laboratory focuses on understanding and regulating high-level gene expression and promoters, and applies these fundamental studies to the production of various vaccines and recombinant proteins. We utilize insect baculovirus as a primary research tool because it is not pathogenic to humans, making it safe and easy to handle. Moreover, protein expression in insect cell systems using this virus produces higher-quality proteins than bacterial or yeast systems, making it suitable for high-standard applications in medicine and biotechnology. The lab also collaborates with industry partners to produce important vaccines, such as avian influenza vaccines.

In addition, we have developed a baculovirus early gene, IE2, which activates the CMV promoter and enables applications in mammalian cell systems. We further discovered that IE2 can form nanoscale spherical structures in the nucleus, which encapsulate actin, RNA polymerase, and other proteins required for transcription. This forms a dynamic gene expression structure observable under light microscopy. It represents a novel biological micro-machine that functions as a DNA sensor and enhances gene expression in a unique manner. This system provides a distinctive advantage in both theoretical research and practical applications.

In studies of virus–host interactions, unlike the conventional view that miRNAs only regulate mRNA, we discovered that miRNAs can also regulate DNA replication. This finding may have significant implications for future research on miRNA and DNA replication. Furthermore, we developed an innovative approach for domain-based protein structure analysis to improve protein stability, which is crucial for enzyme activity and vaccine efficacy research.

Overall, this laboratory integrates innovative basic research with applied biotechnology, focusing on both scientific advancement and practical applications, and represents a forward-looking research group.