Jun Yang

Jun Yang is a Professor at the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences and Adjunct Professor in Neurobiology at University of Utah Health. His research focuses on the genetics and cell biology of photoreceptors and hair cells, particularly in relation to Usher syndrome and retinal degeneration.

• Education: B.S. from Nankai University, Ph.D. from University of Massachusetts Amherst

Yang's lab investigates molecular mechanisms of heritable retinal degeneration, including photoreceptor trafficking, calcium regulation, and the multi-protein Usher II complex. His work explores gene therapy approaches using AAV vectors to treat mouse models of retinal diseases.

The 15 most recent publications highlight studies on CFAP418-lipid interactions, USH2 complex integrity, photoreceptor disc morphogenesis, TRPV1 channel regulation, and stereocilia development. These works span molecular genetics, protein biochemistry, and translational therapies for sensory cilia disorders.

His research has been published in journals like JCI Insight, Human Molecular Genetics, and PLoS Genetics, with a focus on protein-protein interactions, ciliary rootlet structure, and membrane homeostasis. Collaborative projects include studies on cytomegalovirus-induced hearing loss and therapeutic interventions.

Jun Yang's laboratory at University of Utah Health employs mouse genetics, molecular biology, and advanced microscopy to understand and develop treatments for retinal and auditory degeneration diseases.