Chen Yu-Yen

Dr. Yu-Yen Chen

CONTACT

Dr. Yu-Yen Chen
Dr. Yu-Yen Chen

E-mail: yyyc@unimelb.edu.au

Telephone: +61 3 8344 2572

QUALIFICATIONS

  • PhD (University of Melbourne)

SHORT HISTORY

  • 1999 PhD Degree from School of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Melbourne
  • 1997-1999 Senior Research Assistant in Melbourne Dental School, University of Melbourne
  • 1999-now Research Fellow in Melbourne Dental School, University of Melbourne

RESEARCH INTERESTS

  • Protein Biochemistry and Proteomics

CURRENT RESEARCH PROJECTS

Cysteine proteinase RgpB and carboxypeptidase CPG70 as candidate antigens for Porphyromonas gingivalis vaccine. (multiple projects)*

Cysteine proteinase RgpB and carboxypeptidase CPG70 purified from P. gingivalis have been shown to protect animals from live P. gingivalis challenge in a murine lesion model (unpublished data). We are currently characterizing the resulting protective antisera using various approaches. The resulting antisera could also be used for further characterization of the two enzymes, including their possible interactions with host extracellular matrix proteins. Multiple projects are available and the techniques involved will depend on the project undertaken. The techniques could involve protein purification, enzyme activity assays, gel electrophoresis, ELISA, Western blots, mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-TOF and nanoLC-Ion Trap) and BIACORE 3000.

For more information email Dr Yu-Yen Chen yyyc@unimelb.edu.au

Proteomics of P. gingivalis*

We have one of the most advanced proteomics labs in Australia, housing the first Australian MALDI TOF/TOF mass spectrometer as well as two LC-MS systems, a standard MALDI TOF and robotics for sample preparation. The honours student who takes on this project will receive in-depth training in proteomics while making an important contribution to our studies. A variety of specific projects could be tailored to suit your interests.

For more information email Dr Paul Veith pdv@unimelb.edu.au or Dr Yu-Yen Chen yyyc@unimelb.edu.au

(Projects that are indicated with an asterisk (*) are available for BSc Honours students)

CURRENT PUBLICATIONS

  1. Yu-Yen Chen, Keith J. Cross, Rita A. Paolini, James E. Fielding, Nada Slakeski and Eric C. Reynolds (2002) CPG70 Is a Novel Basic Metallocarboxypeptidase with C-terminal Polycystic Kidney Disease Domains from Porphyromonas gingivalis. JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL CHEMISTRY, 277(26), 23433-23440.
  2. Paul D. Veith, Yu-Yen Chen and Eric C. Reynolds (2004). Porphyromonas gingivalis RgpA and Kgp Proteinases and Adhesins Are C Terminally Processed by the Carboxypeptidase CPG70. INFECTION AND IMMUNITY 72(6), 3655-3657.

Also see Dr. Chen's Find an Expert page at The University of Melbourne