My research is focused on developing advanced AI and machine learning algorithms to decipher complex human diseases by analyzing massive biomedical data, such as genetics, multi-omics and clinical data.
The exciting part of my work is by using AI and big data analysis, we will be able to better understand disease mechanisms, discover novel therapeutics to cure the disease and even accurately predict disease before its onset. In this way, people will be able to precisely manage their personal health and conditions with a comprehensive understanding of their own bodies.
Since joining UF, I have published eight papers, with several more in preparation. I have obtained two extramural grants to support my research, and another R35 application has been recommended for funding.
I expect that I can build more collaborations in the future, applying our AI approaches to various topics and fields. There are some exciting topics which I want to actively explore, such how our DNA responds to space flight, how aging affects the molecular processes in our cells, and how various cell types are involved in human diseases. My research also focuses on a devastating and incurable neurodegenerative disease called amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, for which we have developed a promising antisense oligonucleotide therapy assisted by our AI. Collaborating with ALS biologists and clinicians, we are working hard to further improve and validate this therapy, with the hope that it could be pushed to clinical trials.