معرفی
Dr. Hangjun Ke is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Microbiology & Immunology at Drexel University College of Medicine. His research focuses on understanding the bioenergetic mechanisms of malaria parasites, particularly Plasmodium falciparum, to identify novel drug targets. He leads a lab investigating proton pump functions, mitochondrial dynamics, and pyrophosphate metabolism in parasite survival and drug resistance.
Education:
- Bachelor of Medicine, Tongji Medical College (2002)
- MS in Immunology, Tongji Medical College (2005)
- PhD in Parasitology, Drexel University College of Medicine (2011)
Research Interests:
Dr. Ke’s work centers on pH regulation in malaria parasites, mitochondrial functions, and the role of pyrophosphate as an energy source. His lab explores how proton pumps (e.g., PfVP1, V-ATPase) maintain cellular homeostasis and enable parasite survival during critical developmental stages. Recent studies highlight the dispensability of certain mitochondrial proteins and the sensitivity of parasites to mitochondrial-targeted drugs.
Publications:
Dr. Ke has authored over 20 peer-reviewed articles, including studies on mitochondrial ribosome ablation, antimalarial drug design, and the role of dynamin-related proteins in parasite fission. His work emphasizes translational approaches to combat drug resistance and identify next-generation therapies.
Advising & Grants:
Dr. Ke mentors graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, with former advisees contributing to projects on pyrophosphate metabolism and mitochondrial dynamics. His research is supported by grants focusing on malaria parasite biology and drug development.
Labs/Teams:
His lab collaborates with institutions globally, contributing to initiatives like the design of multitarget antimalarials and investigations into platelet-derived defense peptides against malaria.
