Graduate Student Seminar Series – Eric Chiu

Graduate Student Seminar Series
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Location: 2nd Floor Auditorium (TRI/KITE) – 550 University Ave
Presentation Title: Perturbation and mapping of the nanoscale surface interactome using a DNA origami photo-proximity labeling platform
Abstract:
Background: All cells sense and respond to their environment through membrane receptors. When activated by a ligand, these receptors reorganize into nanoscale clusters—termed protein microenvironments—that serve as hubs for signaling and decision-making. Crucially, these microenvironments recruit a diverse set of proteins beyond the ligand-bound receptors, and their abundance, stoichiometry, and spatial organization collectively shape cell signaling outcomes. Mapping these dynamic assemblies are thus essential to understand how external cues control signaling.
Problem: Current techniques to study these microenvironments rely on proximity labeling, where the protein of interest is fused with a “tagging molecule” which catalytically labels proximal proteins. However, current proximity labeling platforms are unable to map bioloigcal interactions that require functional avidity or precise spatial organization.
Project Objective: To develop modular proximity labeling platform for multiple receptor-ligand interactions with precisely controlled ligand valency, stoichiometry, and nanoscale spacing using a DNA origami scaffold.
Supervisor Name: Leo Chou
Year of Study: 2
Program of Study: PhD
Reschedule Reason: Location update
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