GuangJun Zhang
Title:
Hayward Associate Professor
PhD Granting Institution:
University of Florida
Contact:
Email Address: gjzhang@purdue.edu
Office Phone: 765-496-1523
Lab Website Link: https://vet.purdue.edu/discovery/zhang/index.php
Primary Training Group:
Computational and Systems Biology
Secondary Training Groups:
Integrative Neuroscience, Cancer Biology
Research Areas:
Our current research is focusing two major directions: 1). Developmental patterning roles of bioelectricity and 2). Novel cancer driver gene discovery using comparative genetic approach. In addition, we are also interested in the developmental mechanisms of vertebrate morphological novelties during evolution (Evo-Devo), especially the roles of gene/genome duplications in early vertebrates. 1). Developmental patterning roles of bioelectricity and ion channels. Bioelectricity refers to endogenous electrical signaling mediated by ion channels and pumps located throughout the cell membrane. Cell membranes act as electrical insulators, in part, due to the phospholipid bilayer’s impermeability to ions. Any ion that forms a gradient across a membrane will contribute to the actual membrane potential and bioelectrical signaling. It is already known that mutations or malfunctions of potassium channel genes cause a variety of diseases in the central nervous system, heart, pancreas, and kidneys (long-QT syndromes, episodic ataxia, familial convulsions, etc.). However, the function of ion channels and bioelectricity are just being recognized in developmental biology. There is growing evidence that bioelectricity also plays an important role in vertebrate embryogenesis, wound healing, and cancer. Currently, we are focusing on the developmental roles of potassium channel genes zebrafish fin size and pigment patterns. 2). Novel cancer driver gene discovery using comparative oncogenomics. Most human cancer cell genomes contain thousands of genetic alterations. But not all the altered genes equally contribute to cancer development and progression. A major goal of current cancer research is to distinguish pathogenetically relevant genetic alterations (drivers) from the passive changes (passengers) in cancer genome, thus targeting therapy can be developed on human tumors. Our lab mainly uses zebrafish as a model to study human cancer biology of MPNSTs (malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors). First, novel human cancer driver genes will be identified through zebrafish-human comparative oncogenomic analysis and zebrafish genetic models. Following identification, novel genes’ functions and mechanisms will be examined in cancer and vertebrate development. development. The new cancer driver genes will provide more information for not only cancer biology, but also guides on human cancer patient diagnosis, treatment and prognosis.
Current Projects:
Cancer genetics and genomics, Developmental Biology