Choi Hee-Jung

Choi Hee-Jung is a Professor in the Department of BIO at Seoul National University. Her research focuses on structural biology, employing molecular biology and biochemical techniques alongside X-ray crystallography to study proteins such as GPCRs and components of the Hippo signaling pathway. Notable work includes the crystal structures of the beta2-adrenergic receptor and alpha-catenin peptide complexes. She holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry from Seoul National University and has conducted postdoctoral research at Stanford University and the Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology. Her academic career at Seoul National University includes roles as Research Associate, Postdoctoral Fellow, Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, and currently Professor.

Hee-Jung Choi's research focuses on the structural and functional analysis of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and their interactions with ligands and signaling proteins. Key studies include high-resolution crystal structures of the β2-adrenergic receptor, its stabilization with nanobodies, and the structural basis of agonist-receptor complexes. Choi also investigates the molecular mechanisms of Wnt signaling, including interactions between Dickkopf and LRP5/6, as well as the role of β-catenin in cellular processes. Additionally, Choi's work explores the structural basis of redox switches in transcription factors and the regulation of cadherin-catenin complexes in cell adhesion. These studies provide insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying receptor function and signaling pathways.