Zhe Lu

Zhe Lu is a Professor in the Department of Physiology at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine. Their research focuses on ion channels, particularly voltage-gated and Ca²⁺-activated K⁺ channels, investigating their structural dynamics, functional mechanisms, and roles in diseases like cystic fibrosis. They employ advanced techniques such as single-molecule fluorescence-polarization microscopy, electrophysiology, and structural biology.

• MD (1986) and PhD (1992) from the University of Wisconsin-Madison
• Key affiliations: Institute for Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism; Institute of Immunology; Mahoney Institute of Neurological Science

Research highlights include elucidating the modular architecture of K⁺ channels, developing a 4D model of Ca²⁺-activated channels, and engineering subtype-specific inhibitors for Kir channels. They also explored enzymatic control of ion channels via sphingomyelinase and the antioxidant role of thiocyanate in cystic fibrosis. Their work integrates structural, biochemical, and physiological approaches.

Zhe Lu has received prestigious awards including the Mahoney Fellowship and NIH Independent Scientist Award. Their laboratory utilizes transgenic animal models and multidisciplinary methods to advance understanding of ion channel dysfunction and therapeutic strategies.