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Bending Light and Sound
To create more efficient light-emitting devices
and thermal radiation control, a new generation
of functional materials capable of controlling
the density of radiation modes is being explored
by Prof Che Ting Chan (Physics). The materials
are expected to be able to bend and confine
light and sound in unusual ways, equipping
microscopes with better resolution and facilitating
the design of efficient, lighter antennae and
optical chips. In addition, the research team will
work on modifying the scattering and absorption
properties of natural materials in order to achieve
stealth, reduce noise and increase energy
harvesting capability.
Understanding Autism
Genetic studies have consistently proved that
hundreds of genes are associated with autism
spectrum disorders, yet our understanding
of underlying mechanisms governing the
alterations of these genes and their role in
causing the diseases is limited. Research led by
Prof Mingjie Zhang (Life Science) aims to provide
new theoretical grounding for understanding
an array of neuro-disorders including autism,
schizophrenia and depression, while at the same
time developing medicines and therapies to treat
the disease-related effects.
Fresh Light on Luminescent Materials
Conventional luminescent materials often
become non-emissive when aggregated,
resulting in an aggregation-caused quenching
effect. Prof Benzhong Tang (Chemistry) and his
researchers are working on the creation of new
luminescent molecules with aggregation-induced
emission (AIE) characteristics. Hi-tech applications
of AIE materials in optoelectronics, chemosensors
and bioprobes are also being explored.
Window intoWorld of Cells
An interdisciplinary team of researchers led by
Prof Michael Loy (Physics) is developing and
applying super-resolution technology (“STORM”)
to look inside live cells. With this technique,
blurred images of mitochondria, which are the
power plants inside every living cell, can now
be imaged in 3D with much sharper resolution,
allowing researchers to see how these organelles
change in real time under various drug
treatments.
DRIVING FORWARD,
FINDING SOLUTIONS
HKUST’s pioneering research seeks to lead the
way to a better world for all. Over the year,
many significant advances have been made.
The following highlights illustrate just some of
the cutting-edge work pursued
Tackling Nervous System Disorders
Brain diseases and disorders such as Alzheimer’s
disease and clinical depression do not have
any cures at this time, while treatments only
target symptoms of these conditions. Recent
breakthroughs in regenerative medicine show
much promise in the development of effective
neural stem cell-based therapies that replace
lost or damaged brain cells or induce self-
repair within the brain. In July 2012, under the
Theme-based Research Scheme, the Hong Kong
Research Grant Council awarded HK$60.8 million
to an interdisciplinary team led by Prof Nancy
Ip for a pioneering initiative entitled Stem Cell
Strategy for Nervous System Disorders. The focus
is to understand the key signaling mechanisms
governing the generation of new brain cells and
their differentiation, maturation and integration into
the neural network, and to identify small molecules
derived from traditional Chinese medicine herbs to
treat brain diseases and disorders.
Research Development