Research interest:
Cellular functions are intricately linked with metabolic processes, which not only serve as the source of cellular energy but also act as pivotal regulators of a wide range of physiological activities. Our research team is dedicated to uncovering the intricate mechanisms through which metabolism governs key physiological activities, thereby enabling cellular adaptation.
We employ a multi-faceted approach, integrating traditional biochemical, cellular, and molecular biology techniques with state-of-the-art omics technologies. This comprehensive methodology allows us to explore the nuances of metabolic regulation in depth. We have been at the forefront of identifying novel protein modifications catalyzed by cellular metabolites, including lysine lactylation (mediated by lactate) and lysine β-hydroxybutyrylation (mediated by ketone bodies).
Our current research is concentrated on three pivotal areas:
1. Discovery and Functional Analysis of Metabolite-Driven Protein Modifications: We are uncovering and studying new types of protein modifications, shedding light on previously unknown pathways through which metabolites modulate protein functions.
2. Regulation of Chromatin Activity by Metabolites: We are delving into the novel mechanisms by which metabolites influence chromatin activity, which in turn affects gene expression and ultimately, cellular fate.
3. Role of Metabolic Enzymes in Metabolic Adaptation and Regulation: We are examining new mechanisms involving metabolic enzymes in the context of metabolic adaptation and regulation, enhancing our understanding of the multifaceted role that metabolic processes play in cellular physiology and disease.
Metabolism
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metabolic_pathway; From wiki
Lactylation
Nature (2019)
Nat Chem Biol (2024)
Professor
Di Zhang
Professional Experience
2021.03 – present Assistant Professor,
Peking University School of Life Sciences, Beijing, China
2021.03 – present Principal Investigator,
Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Beijing, China
2013.09 – 2021.01 Postdoc,
Ben May Department for Cancer Research,
The University of Chicago, USA
HONORS AND AWARDS
2021, Bayer Investigator
2021, Yi Fang Investigator
2022, Peking University Boya Young Fellow
2023, The 22nd Peking University Young Teachers’ Basic Teaching Skills Compet ition, First Prize, Excellent Teaching Plan Award, Best Teaching Demonstration Award, Most Popular Teacher Award, and Ideological and Political Education Award
2023, Peking University School of Life Sciences Dongbao Education Fund Teaching Award
CONTACT
Email: zhangdi@pku.edu.cn
Office Phone: +86-10-62750430
Office Address: Jinguang Life Science Building, Peking University, No.5 Yiheyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, P.R.China 100871
Peking University homepage:
http://www.bio.pku.edu.cn/homes/Index/news_cont_jl/17/1080.html
Personal Homepage:
https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=vU5Sz28AAAAJ&hI=en