Dr. Jonathan Karn's lab at Case Western Reserve University focuses on understanding how HIV persists in the body, particularly in the brain, and how different factors, such as RNA modifications and substance use, influence this process. The lab works to develop new methods for studying HIV latency and reactivation using advanced techniques such as next-generation sequencing and induced pluripotent stem cells. By deciphering the complex interactions between HIV and the brain, the lab aims to contribute to better treatments for HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders.

Dr. Susann Brady-Kalnay's lab focuses on understanding how cancer cells invade and metastasize along nerves. By investigating a specific biomarker found in cancer that is linked to this nerve growth, they are developing nanoparticles that can be used for both imaging and treatment of metastatic breast cancer. This research aims to improve early detection and provide better therapeutic outcomes through targeted therapies and enhanced radiation treatment.