Karim Jean Armache's lab at NYU focuses on understanding how the addition of methyl groups to DNA (a process called DNA methylation) is altered in cancer. Specifically, they study a protein called DNMT3A1 that is important for adding these methyl groups and how its activity is regulated by different chemical modifications on histones, which are proteins that package DNA. By exploring these mechanisms, the lab aims to uncover new strategies for targeting cancer through epigenetic approaches, potentially leading to more effective and less toxic treatments.

Dr. Pau Castel's lab focuses on understanding rare neurogenetic disorders and their associated molecular mechanisms, particularly Schwannomatosis, which involves the growth of nerve tumors. The research aims to identify how genetic mutations affect Schwann cells and contribute to tumor formation, and to explore potential treatments. The lab also studies the roles of non-classical RAS oncoproteins in cancer, looking for new ways to target these molecules for better cancer therapies.

Dr. Teresa Davoli's lab focuses on understanding how DNA mutations occur in human cells and their role in diseases like cancer. The lab develops a novel system called MutSensor, which allows for precise measurement of mutation rates in mammalian cells. By identifying the genes that control these mutations, the research aims to uncover fundamental mechanisms of genome stability, contributing valuable insights for public health and disease prevention.

Dr. Konstantin Ichtchenko's lab focuses on developing new treatments for botulinum neurotoxin poisoning, a serious condition that can cause paralysis and respiratory failure. The team aims to create innovative therapeutics that can specifically target and neutralize the neurotoxin's harmful effects within nerve cells. Their work is not only relevant for addressing botulism but also has implications for treating other neurodegenerative diseases.

Dr. Xiangpeng Kong's lab is focused on developing innovative vaccines against HIV/AIDS, particularly targeting a crucial site on the HIV-1 virus that can elicit strong immune responses. They utilize a unique approach by combining HIV fusion peptide immunogens with cholera toxin subunit B to create potent vaccine candidates. The lab aims to enhance the effectiveness and coverage of antibody responses that could lead to a successful vaccine against HIV.

Dr. Itai Yanai's lab at New York University School of Medicine focuses on understanding how cancer cells adapt to treatment, specifically studying the transition from lung adenocarcinoma to squamous cell carcinoma in response to specific drugs like adagrasib. By exploring molecular mechanisms and chromatin regulators involved in this process, the lab aims to uncover new therapeutic strategies to counteract drug resistance in lung cancer. Their research combines advanced genetic screening techniques with mouse and organoid models to identify vulnerabilities in cancer cells.