Furthermore, we would like to use RNA as therapeutic targets and utilize its plasticity to develop novel therapeutic molecules. We will utilize the tools of synthetic organic chemistry, molecular biology, and cell biology to achieve these objectives. The School of Pharmacy is pleased to announce that Song Li, M.D., Ph.D. has joined the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences as an Assistant Professor effective July, 2000. Dr. Li received a M.D. degree from The Fourth Military Medical University in 1991, and a Ph.D. degree from the Fourth Military Medical University in 1991. Prior to being appointed at the University of Pittsburgh, Dr. Li was a Research Assistant Professor at the University of Pittsburgh.
Primary interest is targeted delivery of nucleic acids including plasmid DNA and oligonucleotides.
Several novel vectors have been developed that are highly efficient in systemic gene delivery to the lung. Clinical applications of these vectors, however, are limited by their toxicities including immuno-toxicity. Studies are underway to determine the molecular mechanism of this immune response and to find ways to resolve this problem. Another area of research aims to develop oligonucleotide-based strategies for the treatment of diseases such as pulmonary hypertension, pulmonary fibrosis and cancer. These strategies are designed to silence the gene that is involved in the initiation or progression of the diseases.