Academic Profile : Faculty

SAM_9514aa.jpg picture
Assoc Prof Luo Dahai
Associate Professor, Infection and Immunity, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine
Associate Professor, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine
Dr. Luo Dahai obtained his Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in 2006 and completed his Ph.D. in 2010, both from Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore. Following his doctoral studies, he pursued postdoctoral research from 2010 to 2013 at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) and Yale University, USA. He returned to NTU as a Nanyang Assistant Professor at LKCMedicine, where he served from 2013 to 2019. In 2019, he was promoted to Associate Professor, a position he currently holds at LKCMedicine, NTU, Singapore.
Our lab is dedicated to investigating the molecular interactions between RNA viruses and their human hosts. We utilize a diverse range of scientific approaches, including biochemistry, biophysics, structural biology, and cell biology, to delve into this critical field. Our research has provided significant insights into the mechanisms of viral replication and the complexities of host defense systems. These studies are not merely academic pursuits but essential steps toward a deeper understanding of viral-host dynamics.

Our long-term goal is to expand knowledge of host-pathogen interactions, a foundation crucial for developing more effective antiviral strategies and improving human health. By comprehensively analyzing these interactions, we aim to contribute to the advancement of medical science and address one of the most enduring challenges in global health, ultimately enhancing human well-being.
 
  • Development of a cell-based assay to measure RNA capping during saRNA self-amplification
  • Development of new self-amplifying RNA based mRNA vaccines for epidemic preparedness and response.
  • Development of next generation anti-dsRNA antibody for RNA research and therapeutics
  • Dissecting the Chikungunya Virus RNA Replication Process in vitro and in Live Cells
  • Fighting for Better Survival: Viral RNA Biogenesis versus Host Defense
  • Identification of Structural and Functional roles of RNA in TNFR Signaling: Key for Designing Next Generation Drugs for Cancers and Immune Disorders
  • Mechanistic insights into the functional forms of flavivirus NS1 and its membrane association: Implications in virus replication and pathogenesis
  • Molecular Understanding of the Rubella Virus Replication Process
  • Provost's Chair in Medicine (Luo Dahai)
  • Simultaneous inhibition of mutant KRAS and activation of RIG-I pathway for the treatment of pancreatic cancer
  • The eMEASURE-RNA Initiative: Exploring the Molecular Basis of RNA Editing, Sensing and Immune Response – New Approaches for Immuno- Oncology Therapy (NTU PI: Luo Dahai)
Awards
Dr. Luo Dahai has received several prestigious awards recognizing his contributions to research and academia. He was honored with the LKCMedicine Dean’s Award for Research in 2021 and was appointed the Provost’s Chair in Medicine from 2019 to 2024. In 2018, he received The Nanyang Research Award (Young Investigator) from Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, and was named an EMBO Young Investigator by the European Molecular Biology Organization for the period 2018–2022.
 
Fellowships & Other Recognition
Dr. Luo Dahai was awarded the Research Associate Fellowship at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, USA, where he conducted postdoctoral research from 2010 to 2013.