Professor of Physical and Biophysical Chemistry
California State University, Los Angeles
Dr. Yong Ba’s research lies at the intersection of magnetic resonance spectroscopy, supramolecular chemistry, and biomedical materials science, with an overarching goal of understanding molecular interactions and structures, and translating that understanding into applications in drug delivery, cryopreservation, chemical sensing, and environmental remediation.
Research Themes
1. Supramolecular Drug Delivery Systems
Dr. Ba’s research team has led extensive research on the development of functionalized cyclodextrins—especially PEGylated β-cyclodextrins—as hosts for poorly water-soluble drugs. His group uses solution NMR spectroscopy (¹H, ¹³C, ¹⁹F, DOSY) to probe host–guest interactions and transport properties in biological environments such as mucus.
Recent projects include machine learning-guided optimization of β-cyclodextrin derivatives for targeted encapsulation of anticancer drugs, combining synthetic chemistry, thermodynamic binding analysis, and data science.
2. Antifreeze Proteins and Cryopreservation
Dr. Ba’s team conducts fundamental research on antifreeze proteins (AFPs), employing site-directed spin labeling (SDSL) and advanced EPR/NMR techniques to investigate AFP–ice interactions at the molecular level. These studies have revealed the mechanisms by which AFPs regulate ice growth and melting, providing a foundation for the design of next-generation cryoprotectants.
3. Soft Matter and Hydrogel Interfaces
Dr. Ba’s team has developed hydrogels and co-hydrogel systems incorporating PEG and poly(acrylic acid), tailored for controlled drug release and mucosal adhesion. Through a combination of rheology, diffusion NMR, and EPR, his team evaluates the transport properties and viscoelastic behavior of these materials, aiming to improve mucosal drug delivery.
4. Spectroscopy-Driven Method Development
Across all projects, Dr. Ba’s team develops and applies advanced NMR and EPR techniques, including solid-state double resonance NMR, multiple quantum NMR, 129Xe NMR, and spin relaxation spectroscopy. These methods allow for high-resolution insight into molecular structure, binding kinetics, and dynamics in solids, gels, and liquids.
Impact and Training
Dr. Ba’s research program is notable for its interdisciplinary breadth, integrating chemistry, biophysics, and materials science. He has authored over 40 peer-reviewed publications and secured several U.S. patents. His projects have been supported by the NIH, NSF, DoD, and other agencies, and he is deeply committed to mentoring undergraduate and graduate students in experimental and computational research.
Students in Dr. Ba’s lab gain hands-on experience with spectroscopy, synthesis, molecular modeling, and data interpretation, preparing them for careers in academia, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical science.
For more information or collaboration inquiries, please contact Dr. Yong Ba at yba@calstatela.edu.