Vaccine technology
Immunotherapy
RNA therapeutics
Son Laboratory is interested in elucidating how biomaterials interact with biological environment and coordinate biological/immunological functions, in order to better deal with the complexity of disease progression. As disease is getting complicated, our team seeks to design, construct, and evaluate an unique, sophisticated bio- and nano-systems capable of interacting with disease microenvironment to promote the precise action of biopharmaceuticals including genes, vaccine components, and antibodies. With solid ground on PI's diverse research and educational backgrounds covering biomaterials, bioengineering, micro- and nanotechnologies, immune-oncology and gene therapy, our team aims to develop new and multidisciplinary biomaterials-based tools and principles to modulate immune responses and promote the precise action of biopharmaceuticals for cancer, infectious disease, and autoimmune disease. The proposed studies will not only contribute to understanding of largely unexplored interdisciplinary research areas of material science, immunology and cancer biology, but also promote clinical translation of new immunotherapies.
Translating basic discovery to patient!
​Versatile Drug Delivery Systems for Gene and Immunotherapy
We are developing safe and efficient immunotherapy for cancer and autoimmune diseases.
1. Polysaccharides-based PAMP for precise immune modulation
2. Polysaccharides (PAMPs) + DAMP For synergistic cancer immunotherapy
3. In vivo Immune cell reprogramming
1. Polysaccharides-based PAMP for precise immune modulation
Polysaccharides can be modified to selectively engage pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) and influence specific immune responses. By altering their structures, engineered polysaccharides can enhance or inhibit PRR activation, promoting desired immune responses.
2. Polysaccharides (PAMPs) + DAMP For synergistic cancer immunotherapy
pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) stimulate the innate immune system, while damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) indicate tissue damage. Together, they boost immune cell activation, improving the effectiveness of cancer treatments and promoting a stronger anti-tumor response.
3. In vivo Immune cell reprogramming
Developing immunoactive modulators to reprogram macrophages is a promising strategy for treating various diseases, including cancer and inflammatory conditions. By targeting specific signaling pathways or receptors, these modulators can shift macrophages from pro-inflammatory (M1) to anti-inflammatory (M2) phenotypes, or vice versa. This reprogramming can enhance the immune response against tumors or reduce excessive inflammation, thereby improving disease outcomes and promoting tissue repair.
Gut Microbiome Modulation
for Enhancing Vaccine and Immunotherapy
The polysaccharide-based oral drug delivery system enhances drug stability and absorption by utilizing its biocompatibility and mucoadhesive properties, aiming for efficient drug delivery. Oral delivery of polysaccharides treats diseases by modulating immune cell activity through PAMP-PRR interactions and altering the gut microbiome via metabolic processes.
Oxygen Delivery for Artificial Blood
One major cause of preventable death after trauma is blood loss, and storing blood at room temperature for longer periods could reduce mortality by enabling emergency transfusions. However, blood from drives has a short shelf life, infection risks, and potential for blood type incompatibility. To address these, we’re developing a long-lasting hemoglobin-based oxygen carrier that can act as an artificial blood substitute and treat conditions like hypoxia, altitude sickness, carbon monoxide poisoning, chronic lung diseases, and even cancer, where oxygen therapy is vital.