Wen Zhang from East China Normal University, in China, studies modified nanotubes with enzymes and studies the photoelectrochemical activity to determine acetylthiocholinesterase inhibition. 

What inspired you to become a scientist?

Chemistry is a science that helps us to explore the essence of matters. I am especially interested in chemistry experiments, which usually bring surprises. Although I take lots of time and make a lot of effort with my research, I am always rewarded with various exciting findings. 

What was your motivation behind the work described in your ChemComm article?

In recent years, our group has been working on acetylcholinesterase (AChE) which is a serine hydrolase and plays a crucial role in acetylcholine-mediated neurotransmission. Our latest research reveals that the dysfunction of AChE induced by neurotoxin N-Methyl-(R)-salsolinol participates in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders. So it is of great importance to explore a sensitive approach for detecting AChE inhibition. 

Why did you choose ChemComm to publish your work?

Chemical Communications is a leading weekly journal that publishes high quality communications and does so very quickly! We also want more researchers to read about our findings as soon as possible.

Where do you see your research heading next?

We have developed AChE-Au-TiO₂  photoelectrochemical system and utilized it to evaluate AChE inhibition by neurotoxin. Next, we plan to integrate semiconductor TiO₂ nanotubes with other enzymes to yield novel photoelectrochemical sensors for the inhibition of enzymes.

What do enjoy doing in your spare time?

Light music is my favourite, and it can relax me thoroughly. Additionally, I enjoy outdoor activities such as jogging, cycling and climbing.

If you could not be a scientist, but could be anything else, what would you be?

I would still like to be a teacher. I enjoy the feeling of standing on the platform and teaching everything I know to my students. 

Interviewed by Dr Emma Shiells