The Tang Lab is dedicated to innovating next-generation oligonucleotides to address unmet needs in dermatology.
Postdoctoral positions are available. (click here for details and the application link)
Oligonucleotides, including small-interfering RNAs (siRNAs), antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), splice-switching oligonucleotides (SSOs), aptamers, and antagomirs, are an emerging class of modalities that are transforming the development of medicine.
At UMass Chan, we pioneer the clinical translation of oligonucleotide-based technologies for the treatment of skin disorders. Our recent collaborative efforts (Tang et al., Nat. Commun., 2023) between the Department of Dermatology and the RNA Therapeutics Institute have led to the siRNA drug targeting JAK1 entering clinical trials for inflammatory skin diseases.
The clinical translation of oligonucleotides requires effective delivery strategies and a deep understanding of skin biology. Research areas in the Tang Lab include: (1) Oligonucleotide engineering for topical and systemic delivery to the skin; (2) The biology of hair follicles and other skin appendages in health and disease; (3) RNA-based regulatory mechanisms in skin cells, including alternative splicing and the biology of miRNAs and lncRNAs; and (4) RNA medicine for veterinary dermatology and animal health.
Our mission is to bring rationally developed oligonucleotides to millions of patients and companion animals affected by skin disorders. We believe that our expertise at UMass Chan places us at the forefront of making this vision a reality.
LAB MEMBERS
Qi Tang, Principal Investigator
PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Univesity of Rhode Island
Benjamin Chang, PhD Candidate in Biomedical Sciences
BS in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University
Research interests: chemical engineering of oligonucleotides for topical skin delivery.
ALUMNI
Sarah Winter, Research Associate (2025-2026); BS in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Massachusetts Amherst