Dr. Hui Sun directs analyses of sequencing, genotyping and functional genetics of DNA samples collected from human research subjects. Her research involves using gene expression analysis (e.g., mRNAs, protein) to elucidate the neurobiological mechanisms of addiction. In studying the neurobiological mechanisms, Dr. Sun develops research protocols, methodology, and novel biomedical techniques while optimizing medical laboratory procedures and techniques. Dr. Sun uses real-time PCR, reporter assays, nanostring, and microarray analysis to examine gene expression at the level of mRNA and protein. For protein analyses, Dr. Sun uses EMSA, receptor binding and receptor signaling analysis luciferase binding assays to screen neurotransmitter receptor variants and analyze target membrane proteins. Dr. Sun has a wide range of expertise including Real-time PCR, genotyping, gene expression, oligonucleotide primer design, electrophoresis of DNA and proteins, and DNA sequencing as well as cell culture, receptor binding, and transfection techniques.