Prof. Wong’s major interests are currently focused on the delineation of the mechanisms of cell signaling, particularly those involving the G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). The functional capabilities of GPCRs that bind opioid peptides, melatonin, or chemokines, and their G protein-coupling specificities are examined in different cellular and animal systems. Delineation of interacting domains on the GPCRs and their associated G proteins provides a framework for understanding the fidelity of cell signaling and the creation of novel tools for drug discovery. Signal integration at the level of effectors such as adenylyl cyclase, phospholipase C, and mitogen-activated protein kinases are examined in cultured mammalian cells. In addition, the roles of GPCRs, G proteins, and RGS proteins in the regulation of cell proliferation and differentiation are examined using a variety of immunological, biochemical, pharmacological, and molecular biology techniques.
Biotechnology Research Institute Homepage: http://www.bri.ust.hk/
Molecular Neuroscience Center Homepage: http://www.mnc.ust.hk/
Central Allocation Grant (CAG) Project website: http://www.ust.hk/~stn/