The Journey to the Unknown

J Mol Biol. 2026 Jul 15;438(14):169808. doi: 10.1016/j.jmb.2026.169808. Epub 2026 Apr 12.

Abstract

This autobiographical profile traces my scientific journey, a professor at Tsinghua University, from an unconventional student with ADHD to a leading figure in cell biology. It highlights pivotal mentorship experiences and personal growth through key stages of my training in China and at the NIH. The narrative centers on my lab's serendipitous discovery of migrasomes-novel organelles formed during cell migration-and details the subsequent decade of research that established their biogenesis, secretion mechanisms, and physiological roles. This profile recounts how migrasome research has evolved from an initial observation into an emerging field-a process that underscores the humility and persistence fundamental to transformative science.

Keywords: an emerging field; migrasomes; scientific journey; serendipitous discovery.

Publication types

  • Historical Article
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cell Movement
  • History, 20th Century
  • History, 21st Century
  • Humans