Dr. Daniel J. Klionsky's lab at the University of Michigan focuses on understanding autophagy, a crucial cellular process for maintaining health and preventing disease. They explore how this process is regulated and its implications for conditions like cancer, heart disease, and neurodegeneration. By studying yeast models, the lab aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms and proteins involved in autophagy, providing insights that could lead to new therapeutic strategies.

Dr. Ruma V Banerjee's lab at the University of Michigan focuses on the intricate process of Vitamin B12 trafficking in the cell. They study how this essential nutrient is guided by specific proteins, called chaperones, to reach its target enzymes in the cytoplasm and mitochondria. The lab is particularly interested in understanding the molecular mechanisms that underlie inherited defects in Vitamin B12 metabolism, which can lead to serious health issues.

Dr. Jailson Brito Querido's lab at the University of Michigan studies the role of a specific genetic mutation in two serious neurodegenerative diseases: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD). Their work focuses on understanding how abnormal translation of RNA—specifically a repeat in the C9orf72 gene—leads to the formation of toxic proteins that damage neurons. By using advanced imaging and molecular techniques, they aim to uncover details of how this process happens and how it could be targeted for future therapies.

Michael Cianfrocco's lab at the University of Michigan focuses on understanding how the HIV-1 virus navigates within host cells. Their research aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that allow HIV-1 to exploit cellular transport systems, particularly the dynein motor proteins, to reach the nucleus of the infected cell. By investigating these interactions, the lab hopes to identify new therapeutic targets to prevent HIV-1 infection and improve treatment options.

Dr. Ursula H. Jakob's lab at the University of Michigan focuses on understanding how cells maintain protein homeostasis, which is vital for preventing diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. The lab studies two main areas: the role of inorganic polyphosphate in stress resistance and amyloid toxicity, and how epigenetic changes, specifically histone modifications, influence the aging process and healthspan. By exploring these mechanisms in model organisms, the lab aims to uncover new strategies for promoting longevity and combating neurodegenerative diseases.

Professor Raymond Trievel's lab at the University of Michigan studies how the bacteria Legionella pneumophila causes Legionnaires Disease, a severe form of pneumonia. The lab focuses on understanding specific proteins called lysine methyltransferases that help the bacteria survive and multiply within host cells by modifying histones, proteins that control gene expression. By exploring these molecular mechanisms, the lab aims to discover new therapeutic strategies to combat this dangerous pathogen.

Dr. James H. Morrissey’s lab at the University of Michigan focuses on understanding the complex mechanisms behind blood clotting, particularly how certain molecules can cause harmful blood clots leading to conditions like heart attacks and strokes. The research aims to differentiate between normal blood clotting processes and those that result in disease, offering insights that could lead to new treatments for thrombotic disorders. Through exploring aspects such as tissue factor interaction and procoagulant polymers, this lab contributes to improving public health outcomes related to clotting disorders.

The lab led by Dr. Randy B. Stockbridge focuses on developing innovative treatments to combat early childhood caries (ECC), a significant dental health issue affecting millions of children globally. By studying how certain harmful oral microbes manage to resist fluoride treatment, the lab aims to create specialized fluoride efflux inhibitors that can enhance the effectiveness of fluoride therapies. The ultimate goal is to personalize dental treatments, making them more effective in reversing the dysbiosis associated with ECC.

Dr. Stephen Wiley Ragsdale's lab focuses on understanding how specific proteins regulate critical processes related to heme and carbon monoxide in human health. Their research explores how these proteins protect against diseases related to oxidative stress, such as cardiovascular and neurological disorders, and investigates the mechanisms by which these proteins interact with metals and signaling molecules. This work has broad implications for both understanding human metabolism and developing new biotechnologies.