The ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) touches almost every aspect of cellular processes and is central to protein homeostasis in cells. Dysfunction of the UPS has been implicated in the pathogenesis of many human diseases, including various cancers and neurodegenerative disorders.

Cellular Regulation of Proteasome Trafficking and Homeostasis

Li Lab │ Jianhui Li, PhD

​We are interested in understanding proteasome trafficking and degradation at the cellular and molecular levels. Our goal is to transform the mechanistic understandings of cellular stress response and proteasome regulation into novel therapeutic targets and strategies for treating disease and aging.

We are using yeast genetics, cell and molecular biology, structural biology, and protein biochemistry tools to explore how cell signaling pathways and autophagy precisely regulate proteasome nucleocytoplasmic trafficking and degradation under changing nutrient conditions. We also collaborate with structural biologists to solve the structures of proteasome assembly intermediates and provide structural basis for understanding proteasome biogenesis and novel drug development. ​What we learned from our research projects will advance the field of proteasome regulation and offer therapeutic targets for manipulating proteasome function and homeostasis in human disease treatment.

Our Lab Culture: respect and empathy, shared governance, open communication, effective collaboration, and academic excellence.