Our research is interdisciplinary, focusing on nucleic acid chemistry and its applications in other fields including drug discovery, DNA diagnostics, and nanotechnology. A common thread in our research is in understanding the chemical reactivity and function of DNA. As the carrier of genetic information, understanding the chemistry of DNA is extremely important. Our group investigate the structural basis for carcinogenic and anticancer activity of DNA- and protein-modifying agents. Synthetic methodologies are developed to prepare structurally modified nucleosides and amino acids as potential antitumor, antiviral, and/or anticancer agents. We use the tools of synthetic and physical organic chemistry, as well as biochemistry, and molecular biology for the mechanistic studies of their biological processes.
Our research spans several fields utilizing knowledge and techniques from many areas of science, including organic and bioorganic chemistry, bioanalytical chemistry, medicinal chemistry, materials science, and biology.
Peng Lab 