The goal of the Kim lab is to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. We are specifically interested in utilizing zebrafish models and molecular tools in tandem with confocal imaging and behavioral studies. Our work aims to translate these findings through large-scale data from electronic health records to identify novel biomarkers and assess therapeutic efficacy, driving forward innovative treatments for these debilitating conditions.
Key Research Areas
Drug discovery
identifying potential therapeutic compounds, screening them for biological activity, and optimizing them for efficacy and safety. This process uses advanced techniques like high-throughput screening, computational modeling, and large-scale biological data analysis to target disease pathways and develop novel treatments.
Disease mechanism
Utilizing molecular tools like CRISPR and high-content microscopy enables precise genetic manipulation and detailed cellular imaging to investigate the underlying biological mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases. The goal is to uncover critical insights into disease progression, identify potential therapeutic targets, and facilitate the development of more effective treatments for disorders like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
Informatics research
Identify biological markers associated with neurodegenerative disease risk, onset, and progression, which are essential for developing improved treatments, while leveraging informatics tools and large-scale databases to support drug discovery efforts.