During the visit, Professor Zhihao Wu guided the students on a tour of his modern biological research lab. He explained the functions of various equipment in simple terms, making complex scientific concepts accessible to everyone. Professor Wu also shared fascinating insights, such as the reality that, contrary to what movies often portray, lab benches are typically messy due to the numerous reagents required for experiments.

After exploring the main lab, Professor Wu introduced the students to his fruit fly (Drosophila) lab, where he conducts genetic modifications on fruit flies to study disease-related phenotypes. This research could potentially lead to breakthroughs in curing Alzheimer's disease. The tour concluded with a demonstration of a state-of-the-art laser confocal microscope, which can examine molecules layer by layer and display the results on a computer screen.

The visit to SMU’s biology labs was both educational and engaging, leaving everyone with new knowledge and a deeper appreciation for scientific research.

Fun Facts:

• Thomas Morgan pioneered systematic genetic experiments with fruit flies around 1910-1920.
• Mitochondria are often referred to as the powerhouses of the cell.
• The refrigerators in SMU's Biochemistry Lab are kept at around -80°C to store experimental samples long-term.
• Fruit flies, with their short lifespans, are ideal for genetic experiments because results can be observed quickly.
• SMU uses mice for experiments, and the Animal Research Center is located in the building's basement.
• The lab features an exceptionally powerful microscope for examining molecules.

Jian Xie, President of the Asian Culture and Education Society USA, expressed deep gratitude to Professor Wu for providing such an inspiring and educational tour. She noted that SMU is an excellent institution, and this experience will encourage students to apply to such prestigious colleges with top-tier research opportunities. Jian Xie emphasized that this tour is part of the society’s summer training project, designed to motivate students to pursue their interests in science and work diligently toward their goals. 

Tokyo Harbor volunteer

Julian. Jefferson, Howard, Diana, Ebony, Jiayi, Meihua, ChenRui, Professor Zhihao and Jan