Tan Weihong, Academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, specializing in Analytical Chemistry and Chemical Biology; Dean of the Institute of Molecular Medicine at Shanghai Jiao Tong University.

Introduction

At the molecular level, where the interactions of atoms and molecules define life itself, stands a scientist who explores its mysteries with profound insight. He is a pioneer in the field of molecular medicine, skillfully navigating the complex world of molecular interactions. With a career defined by dedication and passion, he lives by a simple yet powerful philosophy: “Let diligence be your vessel, wisdom your oar, unity your sail, and joy the wind at your back.” This is more than a personal creed; it is his vision for his team and his unwavering commitment to scientific progress.

His journey has spanned multiple disciplines, leading him to the frontiers of scientific discovery. In academia, he relentlessly pursued knowledge; in research, he consistently broke new ground; in collaboration, he championed collective success; and amidst demanding work, he found deep fulfillment. His life is a story of ambition and perseverance, a testament to intellectual curiosity and relentless drive. His heart, still pulsing with a passion for science, burns brightly in the quest to unlock the unknown.

The Origins of a Scientific Journey

Yiyang, Hunan, is a region known for its diversity and inclusive spirit, blending the gentle grace of China’s southern water towns with the bold, pioneering character of the Xiang-Chu region. Nestled between waters and mountains, life here is deeply connected to the land. From the evening songs of fishermen to the vibrant energy of dragon boat races, Yiyang possesses a unique and enduring charm.

Historically, Yiyang was a home to scholars and writers who wielded their pens as instruments of change, contributing significant chapters to China’s cultural legacy. Their works, like the shimmering waves of nearby Dongting Lake, continue to radiate wisdom and inspire new generations.

“I was born in Yiyang, Hunan, into a family of educators,” he recalls. “My parents were both teachers with open minds, and they placed immense value on education for all of us children. From a young age, I was fascinated by the natural sciences—a curiosity that planted the seed for my lifelong journey into scientific mysteries.”

At Cihukou Middle School, Tan excelled in mathematics, physics, and chemistry, earning praise from his teachers and constant encouragement from his parents. However, his path was not without obstacles. During the turbulent era of the “sent-down youth” movement—a national campaign that sent urban youth to the countryside—Tan joined the ranks of rural laborers after finishing high school.

“Those were arduous years, but they were also immensely formative,” he says.

In the harsh conditions of the countryside, Tan never lost his thirst for knowledge. By day, he toiled in the fields, experiencing the hardships of rural life firsthand. By night, he studied by the dim light of an oil lamp. This resilience forged in adversity became the cornerstone of his future scientific career.

In 1977, China reinstated the national college entrance examination, a watershed moment that reopened the doors to higher education for millions. For Tan, it was a gateway back to academia and the launchpad for his scientific dreams. He seized the opportunity, excelled in the exams, and was admitted to the Chemistry Department of Hunan Normal University.

“When I heard the exam was reinstated, I was overwhelmed. Despite the limited preparation time and tough conditions, I was determined. I labored by day and reviewed by night, convinced that hard work would pay off.”

Tan had applied to the Chemical Engineering program at Hunan University as his first choice and Mathematics at Hunan Normal University as his second. The result was a hybrid placement: he was accepted into the Chemistry Department at Hunan Normal University. When he received the acceptance letter, he knew a new chapter was about to unfold.

“Holding that admission letter, I was filled with emotion and silently resolved: once in university, I would not let my family or my community down. At 18, I became one of the first university students after the Cultural Revolution—a fortunate soul stepping into a new life.”

That September, Tan bid farewell to his parents and embarked on his academic journey in Changsha. His resolve fueled four years of diligent study that would shape his worldview and values. In an era where students’ ages varied widely, Tan, the youngest in his class, revered his older, more experienced peers. Their mentorship blossomed into lifelong friendships.

Life on campus revolved around a simple rhythm: dormitory, classroom, and library. Everyone cherished the hard-won opportunity to learn. Tan recalls arriving early to class to claim a front-row seat and earning a place in an advanced “small class” after competitive exams, later joining a special program for overseas study training.

“To master English, I used a ‘brute-force’ method: I memorized a dictionary page by page, tearing out each page only when I had finished it. Students back then were highly motivated, but I was known for being particularly intense. After the 10 p.m. lights-out, I would study under streetlights. My backpack, always heavy with books, left my shoulders uneven—a condition my classmates jokingly called the ‘uneven bars.’”

His dedication paid off. Tan’s undergraduate thesis in organic chemistry earned rare high praise from his advisor.

“Those four years were invaluable. I gained a deep foundation in chemistry and met like-minded friends. We debated academic questions and explored unknown frontiers together—a time of pure passion and discovery.”

It was here that Tan built his solid foundation in chemistry and nurtured his love for research. After graduation, he pursued a master’s degree at the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), where he first encountered catalytic chemistry, sparking his interest in science at the molecular level. Amid China’s period of reform and opening-up, he was sent to the University of Michigan for his Ph.D., where he studied near-field optics and fiber-optic sensing—experiences that would fortify his future research.

Parallel Progress, Pioneering New Frontiers

Across fields like nanotechnology, aptamers, molecular engineering, and screening technologies, Tan’s innovations have propelled scientific progress while advancing national capabilities and public health. These achievements stem from his deep expertise and relentless curiosity. With a unique scientific vision, he identifies cutting-edge trends in nanotechnology and molecular engineering, integrating global methodologies with local needs to drive transformative research.

“Upon returning, my goal was to merge my overseas experience with domestic practices to advance China’s capabilities in nanotechnology and aptamers. At Hunan University, we established state-of-the-art labs specifically to pursue this groundbreaking work.”

In aptamer research, Tan has developed diagnostic and therapeutic strategies that leverage the high specificity of these molecules for sensitive disease detection and precise targeting of diseased cells. These efforts are providing new tools for the field of precision medicine.

“Aptamers are a cornerstone of my research. These small molecules match antibodies in specificity but are far easier to modify and synthesize. We’ve developed aptamer-based diagnostics and therapies, and we hope they will bring new hope to patients.”

In nanotechnology, Tan’s team has achieved breakthroughs with novel nanomaterials and devices for biosensing and drug delivery. This work is particularly focused on the early diagnosis of cancer and the monitoring of treatment, ultimately enhancing efficacy and improving survival rates.

Molecular engineering and screening technologies form another pillar of his work. By precisely controlling the structures and functions of biomolecules, Tan’s team has developed novel biotherapeutics. His innovative molecular engineering strategies enable the optimization of biomolecules, while advanced screening techniques accelerate the drug discovery and directed evolution processes.

Molecular beacons represent another key contribution. Tan’s team has engineered these beacons for the real-time monitoring and regulation of biological processes, providing powerful new tools for both biomedical research and clinical diagnostics.

Tan’s work has earned global recognition, with publications in top-tier journals and numerous national and provincial awards. “Every honor is a reflection of my team’s dedication. Without their collective effort, none of our achievements would be possible.”

Renji Hospital & Institute of Molecular Medicine—New Horizons for Dreams

2017 marked a new milestone for Tan. He brought his scientific vision to Shanghai, founding the Institute of Molecular Medicine at Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, housed within Renji Hospital. This move signaled a new phase in his career and the beginning of a profound partnership with the institution.

At Renji Hospital, Tan leads a team that leverages molecular science, aptamers, and molecular engineering to develop novel diagnostics and personalized drugs for major diseases. His mission is to secure core patents and drive clinical applications that directly benefit patients.

“Renji Hospital offered an ideal stage. With its outstanding clinicians, researchers, and facilities, I could integrate my expertise directly with clinical practice to help advance medical science.”

Under Tan’s leadership, the institute has become a global research powerhouse. Its innovations, moving from lab breakthroughs to clinical applications, reflect his scientific vision and collaborative ethos. Tan insists that hospital-based research must serve clinical needs: “Working with Renji’s brilliant clinicians, we design experiments together, which sparks mutual inspiration. This synergy ensures our work addresses real-world medical challenges.”

His core principle—molecular science as the foundation, clinical needs as the compass—guides the translation of research into patient care. A recent success is an aptamer-based diagnostic for bladder cancer. Collaborating with Renji’s urology department, Tan combined the SGC8 aptamer with radionuclides to create probes for molecular imaging and targeted radiotherapy. Clinical trials showed promising results in visualizing tumors, highlighting the potential of aptamers to distinguish between inflammation and malignancy.

Another innovation is aptamer-empowered targeted drugs. Traditional chemotherapy often damages healthy cells due to its lack of specificity. Tan’s team developed Aptamer-Drug Conjugates (ApDCs), which link powerful drugs directly to aptamers for precise tumor targeting. This approach enhances therapeutic efficacy while minimizing side effects.

“Research is challenging, yet it is deeply rewarding. I thrive on solving problems. Seeing our work directly help patients brings an unparalleled sense of fulfillment.”

Tan fosters a culture where “happy, smart teams work efficiently.” His motto—“Work Hard, Work Smart, Work Together, Be Happy”—is displayed on the lab walls and embodies his leadership philosophy:

-Work Hard: Excellence demands effort. Tan’s own relentless lab work and intellectual pursuit set the standard.

-Work Smart: Efficiency and innovation are paramount. He encourages critical thinking and the use of advanced methods.

-Work Together: Collective strength drives success. He cultivates a collaborative environment, leveraging diverse talents.

-Be Happy: Joy fuels resilience. He promotes positivity, turning setbacks into opportunities for growth.

This culture nurtures talent. “Three of my protégés—Yang Chaoyong, Zuo Xiaolei, and Han Da—have won the prestigious National Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars award,” Tan notes proudly. The team’s synergy—brainstorming challenges and celebrating victories—fuels both innovation and cohesion, broadening the path forward.

Tan’s journey, a tapestry woven from wisdom and perseverance, continues to inspire scientists worldwide. His story illuminates the enduring quest to unravel the mysteries of life.

Editor: Chen Qing @ ShanghaiDoctor.cn

If you'd like to contact Prof. Tan, please be free to let us know at chenqing@ShanghaiDoctor.cn. 

Note: Chinese Sources from “The Path of Benevolent Medicine” which was published in 2024. It records 90 important medical figures in the history of Renji Hospital. Yewen Renyi (ShanghaiDoctor.cn) team was one of the major writers of the book and is authorized by Renji hospital to create English version on the website of ShanghaiDoctor.cn