The Functional RNomics Research Center aims to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of diseases through integrated research that combines genomics, transcriptomics, epigenomics, and immunology, ultimately leading to the development of innovative therapeutic strategies. The Center focuses on the analysis of genetic variations and the exploration of gene expression regulatory mechanisms that influence cancer initiation, progression, and therapeutic response, while also conducting in-depth studies on immune regulatory mechanisms in immune cell–cancer cell interactions.

In addition, the Center is leading precision medicine–based therapeutic development by conducting big data research using patient-derived genomic information, establishing animal models utilizing patient-derived immune and cancer cells, and developing various preclinical disease and tumor models, including liver and lung cancers. 

In particular, the Center seeks to contribute to improving patients’ lives and quality of life, reducing healthcare costs, and creating added value through the development of novel therapeutic agents, targeting a wide range of diseases including autoimmune disorders, transplant-related conditions, and cancers. To this end, it focuses on genetic variation analysis, the exploration of gene expression regulatory mechanisms, and immune regulatory studies of immune cell–cancer cell interactions. It also conducts patient-genome-based big data research, develops preclinical disease and tumor model, and establishes animal models using patient-derived immune and cancer cells.

Notably, it is pioneering the application of patient-derived avatar model systems—where patient-derived immune cells are transplanted into animals—enabling the rapid utilization of disease models across a wide spectrum of conditions in Korea. By integrating basic research with clinical applications, the Center is continuously pursuing the identification of regulatory mechanisms underlying intractable autoimmune diseases and cancers, as well as the development of targeted therapeutics.

Through this convergence-driven and pioneering research, the Functional RNomics Research Center is committed to making meaningful contributions to improving the quality of life of patients suffering from complex diseases and to creating added value through the development of novel therapeutic agents.