Research Areas for Mao Research Group

Mechanoanalytical Chemistry

Mechanoanalytical chemistry explores how mechanical forces such as stretching, pulling, compression, and shear stress affect chemical reactions and biological processes. This research focuses on developing new analytical methods to measure force-dependent molecular events, including changes in molecular interactions, reaction pathways, and biomolecular structures. By studying these processes, we aim to better understand how mechanical forces regulate cell behavior, signaling, adhesion, and other important biological functions.

Single Molecule Studies

Single-molecule analysis studies the dynamics and behaviors of individual molecules using advanced spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. Instead of measuring average signals from many molecules, this approach allows us to observe molecular interactions, conformational changes, binding events, and reaction pathways at the most fundamental level. By tracking one molecule at a time, we can uncover hidden details of molecular mechanisms that are often missed in traditional bulk measurements.

Disruptive Technologies

Disruptive technologies focuses on developing innovative tools, platforms, and analytical approaches that can transform how chemical and biological systems are studied. This area aims to create new methods with higher sensitivity, better precision, and broader applications for detecting molecular interactions, monitoring reactions, and understanding complex biological processes. By combining chemistry, engineering, and advanced instrumentation, this research helps open new possibilities for scientific discovery.

Cell and Molecular Biology

Cell and molecular biology investigates how molecules, cells, and biological systems work together to control important life processes. This area focuses on understanding molecular interactions, cellular signaling, gene regulation, cell behavior, and disease-related mechanisms. By connecting molecular-level events with cellular functions, this research helps explain how biological systems respond to chemical, mechanical, and environmental changes.