Yong Yu

Yong Yu is a Professor and Graduate Director in the Department of Biological Sciences at St. John's University, part of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. His research focuses on ion channel and receptor molecular mechanisms, particularly transient receptor potential (TRP) channels involved in sensory physiology and disease. The Yu Lab uses mammalian cells, Xenopus oocytes, and zebrafish models with integrated molecular biology, biophysics, X-ray crystallography, and electrophysiology techniques. Research is funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the PKD Foundation. His work addresses ion channel roles in sight, hearing, pain, and disease mechanisms like polycystic kidney disease.

Key research areas include TRP channel regulation, ligand interactions, and disease-related mutagenesis. Techniques emphasize structural biology and functional assays to elucidate channel activation, ion permeation, and pharmacological modulation. The lab also explores adverse drug interactions affecting calcium channels and zinc-dependent signaling pathways. Recent studies highlight structural insights into channel complexes and their role in cellular homeostasis.

Funding supports investigations into channelopathies and drug development, with publications spanning ion channel assembly, disease mechanisms, and nanomaterial applications. The lab's interdisciplinary approach bridges basic science and translational research for therapeutic advancements.