Chonghui Cheng

Chonghui Cheng is a Professor at Baylor College of Medicine, leading an active research laboratory focused on RNA regulation mechanisms in cancer biology. Affiliated with the Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center and collaborating with physician scientists, the Cheng Lab investigates how alternative splicing influences breast cancer metastasis and therapeutic resistance using integrated molecular biology, genomics, and bioinformatics approaches.

The lab's research centers on RNA regulatory networks controlling epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and breast cancer progression. Key discoveries include establishing CD44 splice isoform switching as a driver of metastasis, identifying hnRNPM as a critical splicing regulator in cancer cell plasticity, and developing NanoFlare technology for circulating tumor cell detection. Their work bridges fundamental RNA biology with clinical translation through collaborations with nanotechnology engineers.

Recent publications demonstrate a consistent focus on RNA splicing mechanisms in cancer progression, particularly examining splice isoforms of CD44, regulation by RNA-binding proteins (hnRNPM, ESRP1, hnRNPF), and RNA structural elements like G-quadruplexes. Methodological innovations include high-throughput screening platforms and novel detection technologies for cancer cells.

The lab currently mentors several trainees including graduate students Khushali Patel, Nicole Yiran Wang, Rong Zheng, and postdoctoral associates. Research operations are based in the BCM-Alkek Graduate School building, facilitating interdisciplinary collaborations across Baylor's research community.