Carey Lab

The research in our laboratory is focused on understanding the molecular basis of interactions involving biological macromolecules. Molecular recognition is at the root of essentially all biological processes, and hence much of medicine. All cellular functions depend on protein-protein, protein-small molecule, protein-nucleic acid, or other intermolecular interactions. How do the correct partners identify each other against the background of numerous similar molecules present in the biological milieu? How are appropriate levels of affinity set? Our interest is centered on obtaining a detailed understanding of the underlying chemical and physical processes at work in these interactions. In doing so, we apply both structural and thermodynamic analysis in order to achieve an integrated picture.