Guo-fu Hu
Home Town: Xianju, Zhejiang, China
Prior Degrees:
- BS, Chemistry, Hangzhou University, Hangzhou,China
- PhD, Biochemistry, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
Programs:
What is the ultimate goal of your research?
My research seeks to understand the function and mechanism of angiogenin, and to apply this knowledge to improve human health. My research is not oriented to any particular pathways, diseases, or disciplines but rather focused on a small protein (14 kDa) named angiogenin (ANG). ANG is remarkably versatile. It can act as an enzyme, an angiogenic molecule, a growth factor, a transcription factor, an anti-apoptotic and pro-survival factor, and a stem cell niche molecule. The different biological activities of ANG are associated with various physiological processes and its deregulations are causative or risk factors of various pathological conditions such as cancers, hypertension, diabetes, and neurodegenerative diseases. I believe that elucidation of the function and mechanism of ANG and development of means to manipulate its activities will have a great impact to the health and welfare of humankind. This is the ultimate goal of my research.
What excites you about your research?
When my hypothesis is proven or disproven by my group or by colleagues, and when new hypothesis is formulated is the most exciting time.
What do you like best about GSBS students?
The unique combination of enthusiasm, rigorousness, and modesty of GSBS students is special. They are intelligent but not arrogant, and are challenging with respect to established thinking but remain respectful.
What qualities distinguish GSBS from other graduate schools?
The atmosphere of the school! The collaborative, collegial, friendly, and relaxing environment! I am deeply impressed that the faculty, the students, and the staff know each other so well.
What do you do to relax?
I love to work in the vegetable garden, fix instruments and appliances. Repairing and cleaning are relaxing and bring me a satisfying sense of fulfillment. When I need completely relax, I read fictions for hours or days.
What is your favorite Boston restaurant?
I like all kinds of food so almost all restaurants are my favorite. I usually take friends and visitors to East Ocean City in Chinatown or Mulan in Waltham. For myself, I can go to almost any restaurant and really enjoy the food.