Harvard University · ChemistryO-GlcNAc and Neurodegeneration Unit
Christina Woo · Cambridge, Massachusetts
Research Focus
The Woo Lab at Harvard University focuses on understanding the role of a sugar modification called O-GlcNAc in the brain, particularly its connection to sleep, circadian rhythms, and Alzheimer's disease. They are developing techniques to precisely manipulate this modification on specific proteins in targeted neurons, which could lead to better therapies for neurodegenerative diseases. Using model systems like Drosophila (fruit flies), the lab aims to discover new molecular mechanisms and small molecules that could improve health outcomes related to these conditions.
O-GlcNAcAlzheimer's diseaseneurodegenerationsleep regulationDrosophila modelscircadian rhythmsprotein engineeringgene editingtargeted therapy
Research Aims
5AIM 01Investigate the dysregulation of O-GlcNAc in specific neurons related to Alzheimer's disease.
AIM 02Identify the brain regions that depend on O-GlcNAc regulation for sleep and circadian rhythms.
AIM 03Develop targeted O-GlcNAc writers and erasers to manipulate specific proteins in the brain.
AIM 04Discover small molecules that selectively modify O-GlcNAc to provide therapeutic options.
AIM 05Create validated models of neurodegenerative diseases for future research and treatment strategies.
Skills the Lab Values
protein engineeringgene editingDrosophila handlingcellular assaysmolecular cloningprotein modification techniquesbiochemical assaysdata analysismicroscopy
Output against the department
Publications104bottom 21% of dept.170th of 216
this lab
most publishedleast published
Citations3.6kbottom 25% of dept.161st of 216
this lab
most citedleast cited
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