Jenny J. Yang

1978-1982 B.S., Chemistry, Xiangtan University, Hunan, China
1982-1985 M.S., Analytical Chemistry, Xiangtan University, Hunan, China
1985-1992 Ph.D., Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL
1992-1996 Postdocs, Inst. of Biochemistry and Cell Biology/Oxford/Yale

1997-2001 Assistant Professor, Georgia State University, GA
2002-2006 Associate Professor, Georgia State University, GA
2006-present Professor of Biophysics/Biochemistry, Georgia State University, GA
2013-present Distinguished University Professors of Georgia State University
2016-present Regents’ Professor of Georgia Board Regent System
2022- present Permanent Georgia Regents’ Professor

Jenny Yang's lab applies various methodologies, including bioinformatics, spectroscopy, protein and coordination chemistry, imaging, cell biology and animal models, to address the following hot research topics. 1) We develop computational and biochemical approaches to identify Ca2+ binding proteins and visualize calcium signaling pathways, dissect key determinants for metal affinity, selectivity,& regulation, and establish the molecular basis of metal toxicity (we called calciomics). 2) We investigate the molecular basis of various human diseases associated with Ca2+ signaling. We work on the structural, regulation and function of several key proteins in integrating extracellular with intracellular Ca2+ signaling & cell-cell communication. 3) We develop biosensors such as Ca2+ and protease sensors to monitor rapid subcellular events with preclinical applications. 4) We strive to create MRI contrast agents to diagnose and cure human diseases with unprecedented sensitivity and accuracy. 5) We design protein drugs with improved therapeutic effects to against cancer, diabetes and virus infection.

Research Interests

Research topics in the Yang lab include (1) developing computational and biochemical approaches to identify Ca2+ binding proteins and visualize Ca2+ signaling pathways (Calciomics). (2) Dissect key determinants for protein metal affinity, selectivity, and regulation and establish molecular bases of metal toxicity. (3) Investigating proteins' structures, activities, and functions, including diseases associated with Ca2+ signaling and cell-cell signaling. (4) Developing fluorescent biosensors for Ca2+ and proteases to monitor rapid subcellular events with preclinical applications. (5) Developing MRI contrast agents for early detection of tissue abnormalities, particularly cancers, to improve diagnoses and facilitate patient treatment options. (6) Designing protein drugs with improved therapeutic effects against cancer, diabetes, and virus infection.

Activities and Awards:

2013 Distinguished University Professors, Georgia State University

2011 the Alumni Distinguished Professor Award of Georgia State University.

2004-2005 Medical Research Award from NIH, Southeast Research Center for Emerging Diseases and Biodefense (SERCEB)

2003 Outstanding Faculty Achievement Award, Georgia State University

2003 Featuring Recognition for Outstanding Contribution to McNair Minority Undergraduate Research Program

Fundings:

NIH: HL042220-20

Gap junctions and ionic currents in developing heart

NIH: GM081749-04S1

Structural biology of receptor-mediated extracellular calcium signaling

NIH: EB007268-04

Designing magnetic resonance protein-based contrast agents with high relaxivity