Ying-Hui Fu, PhD

Dr. Fu’s research uses human genetics combined with multiple model organisms to investigate molecular mechanisms of human conditions. Her laboratory has been focusing on two areas: one in myelin biology and the other in circadian rhythm and sleep behaviors. For myelin biology, they investigate the interlocking networks of protein-coding genes and non-coding RNAs in ensuring a healthy myelin. For circadian and sleep behaviors, over the last 15 years, she and her colleagues identified several mutations that lead to extreme morning lark phenotype. In addition, they are investigating the genetic basis for human subjects to have shorter sleep duration. Since circadian rhythm and sleep homeostasis are intimately connected with many physiological pathways including metabolism, immune function, and mood regulation, to name but a few, these studies will also shed new light on how sleep schedule and sleep homeostasis can impact on health.