Dr. Sun Hur

Biography

Sun Hur, Ph.D., is a Professor in the Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology at Harvard University. His laboratory investigates the molecular mechanisms of self versus non-self discrimination in immune systems, focusing on innate immune receptors involved in antiviral immune responses and transcription factors that regulate T cell development and self-tolerance. His research includes the study of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), which detect pathogen invasions, and the unique functionalities of RIG-I-like receptors that distinguish between self and non-self RNAs. Hur's work has revealed that the detection of viral RNA is more complex than previously thought, challenging traditional views. His current interests also involve the adaptive immune system's ability to discriminate self from non-self, particularly the role of the transcriptional regulator AIRE in establishing immunological tolerance. His lab utilizes a range of techniques including crystallography and electron microscopy to explore the structures and functions of proteins involved in immune signaling.

Research Interests

Experience