Danfeng Cai

Danfeng Cai, PhD, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and the School of Medicine. Her research focuses on biomolecular condensates and their roles in transcription regulation and cancer. The Cai Lab employs advanced imaging, genomics, and proteomics to investigate phase separation in cellular processes, particularly in renal cell carcinoma and YAP/TEAD-driven transcription.

• PhD, Johns Hopkins University, 2014
• BS, Peking University, 2009

The Cai Lab investigates how liquid-like condensates regulate transcription and chromatin organization in normal and cancer cells. Key research areas include the formation and function of YAP/TEAD transcription hubs and the role of membrane-less organelles in papillary renal-cell carcinoma (PRCC). Using super-resolution microscopy, single-particle tracking, and optogenetics, the lab explores how phase separation influences gene expression and cellular homeostasis.

The lab's recent publications highlight a strong focus on phase separation, transcriptional reprogramming, and cancer progression. Articles span topics such as TFE3 fusion oncoprotein condensates, ADP-ribosylation in p62 bodies, and chemoproteomic probes, reflecting interdisciplinary research at the intersection of cell biology, cancer, and proteomics.

Scientific Awards:

• Kavli Fellow, National Academy of Sciences
• Leading Edge Fellow, Leading Edge Symposium
• The Lorraine Flaherty Award, International Mammalian Genome Society
• Forbeck Scholar Award, William Forbeck Research Foundation
• Fellows Award for Research Excellence, National Institute of Health
• Damon Runyon-Dale F. Frey Award for Breakthrough Scientists, Finalist
• Bae Gyo Jung Award, Johns Hopkins University

Danfeng Cai has secured significant research funding, including an R35 MIRA grant from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIH), funding from the Department of Defense’s Kidney Cancer Research Program, and institutional support from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. She actively mentors trainees in cutting-edge microscopy and proteomics techniques. The Cai Lab is interdisciplinary, fostering collaborations with physician scientists, engineers, and mathematicians.

The Cai Lab is based in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. The lab is actively recruiting and emphasizes curiosity-driven research using advanced imaging and proteomics tools to study biomolecular condensates. The team collaborates widely across Johns Hopkins and internationally.