Chun-Kan Chen, PhD

Chun-Kan Chen, PhD

Primary Academic Title

Assistant Professor, Departments of Cell Biology and Physiology, Washington University School of Medicine

Clinical Expertise

Cell Biology & Physiology

Research Interest

My research focuses on circular RNAs (circRNAs) and their contribution to cancer progression. The human genome encodes thousands of highly conserved circRNAs, with hundreds serving as protein synthesis templates. Disruption of protein-coding circRNAs has been associated with cancer, but the molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Utilizing high-throughput screening, next-generation sequencing, and mass spectrometry, I aim to reveal the roles of protein-coding circRNAs in cancer progression and uncover related mechanisms. Establishing links between circRNAs and cancer will offer insights into circRNA dysregulation, and help identify potential treatments targeting circRNA-encoded proteins, leading to more effective cancer therapy.

Education

  • 2017: PhD, California Institute of Technology, CA

Training

  • 2009 - 2010: Summer Internship Research Assistant Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taiwan