Yi Hua, PhD

Cell surface proteins play prominent roles in regulating immune responses and govern intercellular communications within the tumor microenvironment. To study the roles of cell surface proteins during cancer progression at exceptional molecular resolution, Dr. Hua aims to develop SortID, a novel labeling technology based on an engineered bacterial enzyme. SortID will be able to rapidly label any exposed protein residues on the cell surface, enabling precise mapping of the cell surface without pre-installed tags. To demonstrate its transformative utility, Dr. Hua will deploy SortID to map the surface of SLAMF7, a critical therapeutic target in multiple myeloma. Ultimately, SortID will provide a highly precise and comprehensive map of cell surface interactions, deepening our understanding of cancer progression and unlocking novel targets for targeted immunotherapies. Dr. Hua received his PhD from Princeton University, Princeton, and his BS from Tsinghua University, Beijing.