Event
Special Lecture in Biological Chemistry: Xiao Xie (Princeton University)
Chemical Approaches to Decipher Molecular Codes of Biomolecular Condensates
Dr. Xiao Xie
Princeton University
Tuesday, January 21, 2025
10:30 AM
Carolyn Hoff Lynch Lecture Hall
Chemistry Complex
231 South 34th Street
Title: Chemical Approaches to Decipher Molecular Codes of Biomolecular Condensates
Abstract: Biomolecular condensates, where biomolecules form membrane-less structures that undergo dynamic phase separation, provide spatial and temporal control over diverse cellular processes, including signal transduction, stress response, and gene regulation. In this talk, I will first present the development of Tryptophan-selective bioconjugation chemistry (Trp-CLiC) for rapid labeling of Tryptophan residues. By integrating this precise chemistry with chemoproteomic methods, we profiled functional Tryptophan sites and uncovered how Tryptophan-involved cation-π interactions regulate protein-mediated phase separation processes and their association with cancer. I will then highlight the recent advancement of a condensation-enhanced photo-crosslinking strategy (DenseMAP) for direct protein interactome mapping within subcellular and subcompartmental condensates. Using DenseMAP, we profiled the proteome organization and dynamics of the nucleolar granular component and revealed the critical role of SUMOylation in maintaining nucleolar homeostasis during genetic lesions related to neurodegenerative diseases. Together, these projects demonstrate how innovations in chemical approaches can be employed to decipher molecular codes, including interactions, components, and modifications, that regulate biomolecular condensates.
Bio: Dr. Xiao Xie is currently a postdoctoral researcher at Princeton University, working with Prof. Christopher J. Chang to create innovative spatial chemical biology tools for activity-based sensing and profiling. His postdoc research centers on investigating regulatory mechanisms of protein phase separation and functions of metalloproteins. Dr. Xie obtained his B.S. in Chemistry from Wuhan University in 2014 and his Ph.D. in Chemical Biology from Peking University in 2019 working with Prof. Peng R. Chen. His Ph.D. research was focused on the development of genetically encoded multifunctional photocrosslinkers to explore protein interactions in various biological processes, including phase separation, epigenetics, and protease catalysis. In 2020, he joined Prof. Christopher J. Chang's research group at the University of California, Berkeley as a Tang Distinguished Scholar.