Dr. Seok-Yong Lee's lab at Duke University focuses on understanding how our bodies perceive different types of sensory information, like temperature and pain, through specialized proteins called sensory receptors. The goal is to uncover the molecular mechanisms that allow these receptors to function and to explore how genetic mutations can lead to sensory disorders. By doing this, the lab aims to develop new, non-opioid drugs to effectively treat chronic pain and itching without the side effects associated with current pain medications.

Dr. Kathryn D Meyer's lab focuses on understanding how certain modifications to RNA affect the functioning of immune cells in the brain, particularly in the context of Alzheimer's disease. The research aims to unravel how microglia, the brain's immune cells, respond to inflammation and contribute to neurodegeneration. By studying a specific RNA modification known as m6A, the lab seeks to uncover new potential biomarkers and treatment targets for Alzheimer's disease.

The Schumacher lab at Duke University focuses on unraveling the molecular mechanisms behind protein-nucleic acid interactions in biology. Their research investigates how certain bacteria sense their environment and develop, as well as how they can cause disease. One of their key projects aims to understand the virulence of Francisella tularensis, which causes tularemia and is a potent bioweapon. By exploring these biological processes, the lab hopes to identify new targets for developing antibiotics, especially against drug-resistant bacteria.

Dr. Kenichi Yokoyama's lab at Duke University focuses on understanding how enzymes that utilize metals (metalloenzymes) work, particularly in the creation of essential compounds found in nature. They study the way these enzymes help synthesize complex molecules and investigate how to block the action of key fungal enzymes to combat fungal infections. Overall, their research aims to reveal new ways to develop drugs that can help treat significant health issues caused by pathogenic fungi.

Dr. Pei Zhou's lab at Duke University focuses on developing new antibiotics to combat multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria, which are increasingly difficult to treat. The lab specifically studies LpxH, an enzyme critical for bacterial survival, and aims to create inhibitors that can effectively treat infections caused by resistant pathogens like E. coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Their innovative approach looks to exploit unexploited pathways in bacteria, potentially leading to breakthroughs in antibiotic therapy.