Dr. Angelo D'Alessandro's lab focuses on understanding how red blood cells age and respond to oxidative stress, which is crucial for oxygen transport in the human body. The lab investigates the process of ferroptosis, a unique form of cell death that occurs in response to iron-induced oxidative damage. By studying both in vivo and in vitro models, the research aims to uncover how this process affects red blood cell health and storage, with implications for blood transfusions and overall human health.

Dr. James V Degregori's research lab at the University of Colorado Denver focuses on how respiratory viral infections, such as influenza and SARS-CoV-2, affect dormant cancer cells in the lungs and lead to breast cancer metastasis. The lab investigates the connections between inflammation caused by these infections and the awakening of dormant cancer cells that can result in serious health complications. Their work aims to uncover mechanisms to prevent cancer recurrence and develop strategies for early detection and risk mitigation in cancer survivors.

Dr. Sujatha Jagannathan's lab at the University of Colorado Denver focuses on understanding a muscle disease called facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD). The lab's research investigates how a protein called DUX4 disrupts RNA processing in muscle cells, leading to toxicity and muscle degeneration. By uncovering the molecular mechanisms at play, the lab aims to identify potential new treatments for FSHD and other similar neuromuscular conditions.

The lab led by Dr. Jefferson Matthew Taliaferro focuses on understanding how RNA localization impacts neuron function and its misregulation in diseases like ALS. By investigating the RNA-binding protein TDP-43, which is crucial for transporting RNA within neurons, the lab aims to uncover the consequences of RNA mislocalization in neurological disorders. The research combines advanced techniques in live cell imaging and stem cell biology to explore fundamental cellular processes that have implications for developing new therapeutic strategies.

Dr. Rui Zhao's research lab focuses on understanding the complex process of pre-mRNA splicing, which is crucial for gene expression in eukaryotes. By studying the spliceosome, a large RNA/protein complex, the lab aims to uncover how errors in splicing can lead to genetic disorders and other diseases. Research in this lab combines structural, biochemical, and genetic approaches to fill knowledge gaps regarding splicing mechanisms and their implications for human health.