Dr. Ya-Ming Hou's research lab at Thomas Jefferson University focuses on discovering new antibiotics to fight resistant Gram-negative bacteria, which are notoriously difficult to target due to their protective double membrane. The lab aims to inhibit a specific bacterial enzyme, TrmD, that is crucial for protein synthesis. By screening natural products from various microbial sources, the lab hopes to identify new compounds that can penetrate bacterial cells and effectively kill these resistant organisms.

Dr. Linden T. Hu's lab investigates the complex factors that contribute to persistent symptoms following Lyme disease treatment, known as Post Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS). The lab employs a comprehensive approach, bringing together experts to study immune responses, bacterial behaviors, and other elements that may play a role in the disease. This research aims to uncover why some patients continue to experience symptoms and to develop better diagnostic tools and treatments for Lyme disease.

Dr. Zhen Huang's lab focuses on advancing the diagnosis and treatment evaluation of tuberculosis (TB) using innovative techniques. The lab has developed a novel CRISPR-based assay that can detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis-derived DNA in blood samples, offering a new way to diagnose active and drug-resistant TB cases. This research aims to improve TB management, particularly in areas with high disease burden where traditional diagnostic methods are inadequate.

Dr. Gang Zhou's lab at Augusta University focuses on enhancing immunotherapy techniques, particularly adoptive T-cell therapy (ACT). The lab investigates how specific signaling pathways can be manipulated to improve the ability of CD4 T cells to fight cancers, especially by promoting their persistence and multifunctionality. Their research aims to develop new approaches that could make ACT more effective for solid tumors, potentially leading to better patient outcomes.

Dr. Eric Wagner's lab at the University of Rochester focuses on understanding how the Integrator Complex, a group of proteins involved in gene regulation, affects the function of neurons. By studying how specific proteins interact within this complex, the lab aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that regulate neuronal development and function, particularly in the context of neurological disorders. The research holds promise for insights that could improve health outcomes and tackle brain-related diseases.

David Eliezer's research lab at Weill Medical College focuses on the intriguing role of intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) in cell biology, particularly in how they interact with cellular membranes and contribute to important processes such as membrane trafficking and organization. The lab seeks to understand how these dynamic proteins achieve their functions despite lacking a stable structure, with implications in areas like neuron signaling and the formation of membraneless organelles. By studying specific protein models, the lab aims to shed light on the mechanisms that govern cellular organization and communication.

Dr. Alexander Sobolevsky's lab focuses on understanding the structure and function of important proteins involved in sensory signaling and neurotransmission. His research primarily targets two classes of ion channels: the TRPV3 channel, which is involved in skin sensations and several skin diseases, and ionotropic glutamate receptors (iGluRs), which are crucial for communication in the brain. By exploring how these channels work at a molecular level, the lab aims to lay the groundwork for developing better treatments for various health conditions.

Dr. Benoit Roux's research lab at the University of Chicago focuses on using molecular dynamics simulations to investigate how potassium (Kv) and sodium (Nav) channels function within biological membranes. The lab aims to understand the complex interactions that influence ion channel behavior, particularly in relation to neurological disorders and cardiac functions. By improving computational models, the lab seeks to explore the fundamental forces that guide ion permeation and channel activation, which are critical for human health.

Dr. Junji Iwahara's lab at the University of Texas Medical Branch focuses on understanding how proteins interact with DNA, which is vital for regulating gene expression and maintaining genomic integrity. The lab uses advanced techniques like nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) to study the dynamic processes through which DNA-binding proteins locate and recognize their target sites on DNA. These insights are crucial for developing new therapies for diseases linked to dysfunctional DNA-binding proteins.

Dr. Ursula H. Jakob's lab at the University of Michigan focuses on understanding how cells maintain protein homeostasis, which is vital for preventing diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. The lab studies two main areas: the role of inorganic polyphosphate in stress resistance and amyloid toxicity, and how epigenetic changes, specifically histone modifications, influence the aging process and healthspan. By exploring these mechanisms in model organisms, the lab aims to uncover new strategies for promoting longevity and combating neurodegenerative diseases.

Dr. Vasanthi Jayaraman's lab focuses on understanding how different types of glutamate receptors work in the brain, especially in relation to controlling movement and cognitive functions such as learning and memory. By using advanced techniques like single-molecule FRET and various biochemical methods, the lab investigates the complex interactions and structural changes within these receptors, aiming to uncover how they operate in both healthy and disease conditions. Their work could provide insights into the mechanisms underlying neurological disorders like strokes and Parkinson's disease.

Dr. Joyce Jose's lab at Penn State University focuses on understanding how the Zika virus spreads from mother to fetus, particularly during pregnancy. The lab is exploring a cellular structure known as tunneling nanotubes, which may help the virus transmit between cells in the placenta. By studying these mechanisms, the lab aims to find new ways to prevent serious birth defects linked to Zika virus infections.

Dr. Madhavi P. Kadakia's lab focuses on understanding how certain proteins, specifically Np63 and TIP60, influence the behavior of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), particularly in their ability to resist chemotherapy treatments like cisplatin. The research aims to uncover why SCC tumors often become resistant to such treatments and to explore new strategies that could help overcome this challenge. Their work is significant as it seeks to find better ways to treat head and neck cancers, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

Patricia M Kane's lab focuses on studying V-ATPases, which are important protein pumps that help acidify cellular compartments in all eukaryotic cells. The lab investigates how these pumps are regulated and their roles in diseases like cancer, epilepsy, and Alzheimer's. By understanding the mechanisms behind V-ATPase function, the lab hopes to develop better therapeutic strategies for diseases linked to their dysfunction.

Dr. Mariusz Karbowski's lab at the University of Maryland Baltimore explores how mitochondria and peroxisomes interact at the cellular level, particularly through a specific protein called MARCH5. The research aims to understand the mechanisms of energy metabolism and how these organelles respond to dysfunction. This work is vital for developing new treatments for diseases associated with mitochondrial and peroxisomal malfunctions, especially as the population ages.

Dr. Harry Karmouty-Quintana's lab at the University of Texas Health Science Center focuses on understanding how ribosome dysfunction contributes to severe lung diseases, particularly interstitial lung disease associated with systemic sclerosis. They investigate how changes in ribosome production affect cell behavior and lead to excessive scarring in the lungs, which can be fatal. The ultimate goal is to uncover new treatment strategies for patients suffering from lung fibrosis.

Dr. Ailong Ke's lab at Yale University focuses on understanding the intricate roles of RNA in gene regulation and immunity using advanced techniques in biophysics and molecular genetics. The lab aims to develop new biotechnological applications, including RNA-based genome editing tools like CRISPR. By studying the structure and function of riboswitches, the research also seeks to identify new antibiotic targets relevant to human health.

Dr. Robert J Keenan's lab at the University of Chicago focuses on understanding how membrane proteins are created and folded in cells. These proteins play essential roles in various cellular functions and their improper folding can lead to diseases. The lab's research investigates the molecular mechanisms behind the assembly of multi-pass membrane proteins, crucial for both cell functionality and health. By studying these processes, they aim to provide insights that may help address various human diseases related to membrane protein dysfunction.

Dr. Anthony Koleske's lab at Yale University focuses on understanding the role of the TRIO gene in neurodevelopmental disorders like autism and schizophrenia. The lab investigates how specific genetic variants affect TRIO protein function and aims to identify small molecules to modulate its activity as potential therapeutic strategies. Through biochemical assays and advanced cell models, the lab seeks to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of neuronal development influenced by TRIO.

Dr. Justin Kollman's lab at the University of Washington focuses on the structure and function of metabolic enzyme assemblies. They study how different enzymes in cells organize and work together to maintain metabolic balance, especially under changing environmental conditions. By understanding these assemblies, the lab aims to uncover insights into diseases linked to metabolic dysfunction and the potential for new medical therapies.