Dr. Qi Zhang's lab focuses on understanding how aging affects inflammation at the molecular level, particularly involving a protein called cGAS, which plays a crucial role in the immune response. The team investigates how changes in the acetylation of histone proteins can activate cGAS, potentially leading to chronic inflammation and age-related diseases. By bridging molecular biology and biochemistry with aging research, this lab aims to uncover new therapeutic strategies for conditions associated with aging.

The lab led by Dr. Jeanette Gowen Cook at the University of North Carolina focuses on understanding the mechanisms that control cell division and how certain cancer cells can enter a dormant state called quiescence. This research is critical, as quiescent cancer cells often resist treatment, leading to cancer relapse. Using innovative biosensors, the lab aims to study the different states of cell quiescence and their impact on tumor behaviors. Ultimately, the team's work will contribute to improved cancer therapies and provide insights into how cells maintain their genetic integrity during division.

Dr. Dale Ramsden's lab at the University of North Carolina focuses on understanding how DNA polymerase theta contributes to genome stability and its role in cancer. Using a multidisciplinary approach, the lab looks into the mechanisms of DNA damage repair, particularly in BRCA-deficient cancers, and seeks to identify ways to selectively target these vulnerabilities to develop more effective cancer therapies. Their research combines molecular biology with structural biology and biophysics to inform clinical applications.

Dr. William F. Marzluff's lab at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill focuses on understanding the tumor suppressor protein p53, especially its function outside the nucleus. The lab investigates how p53 can regulate important cellular processes like apoptosis and autophagy in the cytoplasm. By studying mutant forms of p53 modeled after bat genetics, the team aims to uncover novel regulatory mechanisms that could influence cancer treatment and aging.

Dr. Wolfgang Bergmeier's lab at the University of North Carolina focuses on understanding how certain cellular signaling pathways influence the behavior of platelets, which are crucial for blood clotting. The research seeks to unravel the mechanisms that lead to problems like excessive bleeding or unwanted blood clots in conditions such as cancer and thrombosis. By identifying how platelets function and their role in blood diseases, the lab aims to develop better diagnostics and treatments for these critical health issues.

Dr. Aziz Sancar's research lab at UNC Chapel Hill focuses on understanding how DNA damage and repair processes are influenced by the circadian clock — the body’s internal clock that regulates biological rhythms. The lab employs innovative techniques to map DNA damage and repair at a single-nucleotide level, aiming to improve cancer treatment and prevention by linking these mechanisms to health outcomes. By exploring the relationships between DNA repair, environmental carcinogens, and chronotherapy, the lab contributes significantly to our understanding of cancer biology and personalized medicine.

Dr. Ronald Swanstrom's lab at UNC Chapel Hill focuses on understanding how HIV evolves and interacts with both the host immune system and antiviral treatments. They study different strains of HIV, particularly the subtype C variant prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa, to assess drug resistance and improve treatment outcomes. The research combines advanced machine learning techniques with biological assays to monitor viral changes and latency in the brain and other tissues.

Dr. Brian Strahl's lab at the University of North Carolina focuses on understanding how proteins that modify and manage histones—key components of our DNA—affect gene expression and chromatin structure. By studying the roles of these proteins and their modifications, especially in diseases like cancer, the lab aims to fill gaps in our knowledge about how genes are regulated and potentially identify new treatment targets. Students in the lab will engage with cutting-edge research at the intersection of biochemistry and genetics.

Dr. Guochun Jiang's lab at UNC Chapel Hill focuses on understanding HIV latency and the molecular mechanisms that control HIV reservoirs in the brain. Their research investigates how specific epigenetic modifications influence the behavior of HIV, particularly in myeloid cells in the central nervous system. By developing new therapeutic strategies, the lab aims to find ways to disrupt HIV latency and enhance treatment effectiveness for individuals living with HIV.

Dr. Sharon L. Campbell's research lab at the University of North Carolina focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms by which mutated proteins contribute to cancer, particularly through the study of KRAS, a protein often mutated in lung cancers. The lab employs a variety of techniques to explore how these mutations can be targeted with innovative drugs, enhancing therapeutic strategies and potentially improving patient outcomes. Additionally, the lab delves into the roles of specific cell adhesion proteins in regulating cellular movement and stability, aiming to uncover pathways that could lead to new treatments for associated diseases.