SeungBaek Lee, Ph.D.

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SUMMARY

SeungBaek Lee, Ph.D., a medical translational specialist at Mayo Clinic, is dedicated to studying the mechanisms of certain genes that contribute to cellular aging, tumorigenesis and cancer metastasis in the human body. His research aims to uncover insights into these processes with a particular focus on identifying new anti-aging substances and patient-specific anti-cancer drugs. Dr. Lee delves into the intricate workings of specific genes that play a role in cellular aging and the development and spread of cancer. By unraveling these mechanisms, he strives to gain a deeper understanding of these complex biological processes. His groundbreaking discoveries and potential therapeutic interventions hold promise for the development of innovative approaches to combat aging-related diseases and improve cancer management.

Focus areas

• Anti-aging. High-quality natural mineral water sourced from a specific region has been shown to play a significant role in decelerating the aging process of cells by activating various metabolic processes within them. Dr. Lee and his research team have recently achieved a significant breakthrough by developing a long-lived mouse model that exhibits a lifespan extension of 5 to 6 months, surviving up to an impressive 3.3 years. In this investigation, Dr. Lee has identified numerous genes and specific gene clusters that exhibit altered expression patterns within the tissues of the long-lived mice. This finding has spurred his research into unraveling the mutual signal transduction systems and specific mechanisms involving these genes. By delving into the intricacies of these genetic pathways, Dr. Lee aims to shed light on the underlying processes contributing to enhanced longevity. The discovery of these novel genes holds great potential for identifying future candidates for anti-aging interventions. Dr. Lee's ongoing studies will serve to validate the value and therapeutic implications of these newly identified genes. Ultimately, this research may pave the way for the development of innovative anti-aging strategies and interventions that could positively impact human health and lifespan.
• Patient-specific anti-cancer gene therapy. Even when well known, the function of a gene can often be modified or lost in specific tissues or environments within the human body. Dr. Lee recognizes the importance of understanding the ever-changing cellular environment to properly analyze the functions of specific genes. His recent research endeavors involve uncovering new functions of well-known genes, such as adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), Parkin, WD repeat and SOCS box-containing protein 1 (WSB1), cell division cycle protein 20 (Cdc20), p53 gene, prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA), and translocator protein (TSPO), in various cellular environments. These environments include:
  • Inflammatory environment — necroptosis, pyroptosis and apoptosis.
  • Tumor microenvironment — tumor-derived exosomes, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), tumor endothelial cells (TECs), tumor-associated macrophage, circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and extracellular matrix (ECM).
  • Mitosis — mitotic checkpoint and nuclear envelope breakdown (NEBD).
  • Post-translational modifications (PTMs) — ubiquitination, phosphorylation, acetylation, methylation, glycosylation, sumoylation, S-nitrosylation and palmitoylation.
  • Reactive oxygen species (ROS) — mitochondrial ROS and antioxidant defense systems.
  • Tumorigenesis and metastasis.
  • Cellular senescence — cell cycle arrest, secretory-associated phenotype (SASP) and macromolecular damage.

  With years of experience studying the mechanisms of specific genes, Dr. Lee is currently developing novel anti-cancer drugs based on specific genes such as WSB1, Parkin, Cdc20 and AMPK. WSB1, in particular, shows promise as a new biomarker and radiotracer for metastatic prostate cancer and highly aggressive metastatic breast cancer. Dr. Lee's research has led to the fabrication of radiolabeled WSB1, which may serve as a new theranostic for prostate cancer treatment. With his extensive knowledge and innovative research, Dr. Lee's work has the potential to bring about new therapeutic interventions for patients with cancer.

Significance to patient care

Dr. Lee's research endeavors hold promise for extending human lifespan. His investigations also contribute to improving cancer treatments through the development of new anti-aging candidates and targeted anti-cancer drugs. These advancements have the potential to significantly impact quality of life for patients and contribute to the overall advancement of medical science.