Dr. Howard J. Edenberg's lab focuses on understanding the genetic factors that contribute to substance use disorders (SUDs). The lab conducts experiments to identify specific genetic variants that affect gene regulation in brain cells, which could lead to significant insights into the mechanisms behind these disorders. Through innovative high-throughput techniques and computational modeling, the lab aims to create a resource of genetic variants that link to SUD risk, thereby paving the way for future prevention and treatment strategies.

Dr. Quyen Quoc Hoang's lab at Indiana University Indianapolis focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms of LRRK2, a protein linked to various diseases including Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. By exploring how mutations affect LRRK2's structure and function, the lab aims to uncover insights that could lead to new treatments. Students in this lab will work with cutting-edge techniques to study protein dynamics and activity.

Dr. Michael Aaron Weiss's lab focuses on creating and studying new types of insulin that can help treat Type 1 diabetes more effectively and safely. They are particularly interested in how changes in the structure of insulin can improve its function and reduce side effects, such as low blood sugar. The lab uses advanced techniques like cryo-electron microscopy to analyze insulin's behavior and develop analogs that respond to glucose levels in the body, potentially transforming diabetes management.