1. The molecular mechanisms of host–pathogen interactions

Plant pathogens cause major yield and quality losses in crops by deploying secreted effector proteins that reprogram host immunity and metabolism. Our research focuses on how immune receptor–mediated resistance is activated upon pathogen recognition and how downstream signal transduction pathways amplify this recognition into effective defense responses. We investigate how these recognition and signaling processes are overcome by rapidly evolving pathogens, including effector diversification and other mechanisms that enable immune evasion.

A major goal of our work is to identify host targets of pathogen effector proteins and define the molecular mechanisms by which effectors suppress, alter, or bypass host defenses. To reveal these mechanisms in molecular detail, we collaborate with structural biologists to determine the structures of immune complexes formed between host receptors and pathogen effectors and to understand the interaction interfaces that determine recognition specificity (Zhao and Song, Plant Commun., 2021). Building on these insights, we collaborate with experts in deep learning–based protein design to engineer new recognition specificities and develop novel immune receptors with improved durability against pathogen evolution, enabling more sustainable, genetics-based disease management strategies.

2. Post-translational modification networks in plant immunity and stress resilience

Post-translational modifications (PTMs) are central regulators of plant immunity and stress signaling because they can rapidly modulate protein activity, localization, stability, and interaction networks. Our research focuses on how PTMs, including poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation and ubiquitination, coordinate immune receptor signaling and downstream defense responses, and how pathogens exploit PTM-controlled pathways to promote susceptibility (Yao et al, Mol. Plant, 2021). To systematically identify PTM-regulated immune components, we use proteomics, chemical proteomics, and complementary mass spectrometry–based approaches to map modified protein targets, pinpoint modification sites, uncover PTM-dependent protein–protein interactions, and prioritize candidate regulators for functional validation, ultimately building a mechanistic framework linking PTM-driven regulation to durable immune and stress resilience.

3: Integrated sensing platforms for rapid, ultrasensitive, point-of-care pathogen detection

We develop integrated nucleic-acid sensing platforms for rapid, ultrasensitive, and field-deployable pathogen detection by collaborating with electrical engineering and biomedical engineering partners. Our work leverages isothermal amplification (e.g., LAMP) combined with compact sensing and readout systems to enable point-of-care diagnostics for pathogens and other targets (Mao et al, ACS Sens., 2023; Uchayash et al, ACS Meas. Sci. Au, 2025). These platforms are designed to support practical field workflows and timely decision-making for disease management.

4: Nanomaterial-enabled dsRNA (RNAi) technologies for sustainable control of pathogens and pests

We develop double-stranded RNA (dsRNA)–based RNA interference (RNAi) technologies to control a broad range of agricultural threats, including viruses, fungi, insects, and nematodes, through collaborations with entomologists, nematologists, and nanoscientists. A key focus is nanomaterial-enabled delivery, where dsRNA is encapsulated in nanomaterials to improve stability against degradation and enable controlled release under biologically relevant conditions. This approach supports environmentally responsible, targeted interventions and extends our dsRNA biopesticide experience across multiple pest and pathogen systems.