Dr. Wade G. Regehr's lab at Harvard Medical School studies the complex circuitry of the cerebellum, focusing on how different types of neurons contribute to its functions. The lab examines how these neurons process signals and influence behaviors, such as motor control and social interactions. By upgrading our understanding of cerebellar circuits, the research aims to shed light on cerebellar disorders and their effects on neurological health.

Dr. Bernardo L. Sabatini's lab focuses on understanding how the brain's neurotransmitter signals, especially dopamine, influence decision-making and behavior. The research investigates how different types of dopamine signaling operate, impacting learning and memory, as well as exploring the complexities of synaptic transmission in the brain. By studying these processes in mice, the lab aims to uncover mechanisms related to neuropsychiatric diseases and improve our understanding of brain function.

Dr. Chenghua Gu's lab at Harvard Medical School focuses on understanding the blood-brain barrier (BBB), which protects the brain by regulating what substances can enter from the bloodstream. The lab investigates the molecular mechanisms that maintain this barrier and how it can be manipulated for drug delivery, particularly in the context of neurological disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. By combining genetics, imaging, and biochemical approaches, the lab aims to develop new therapies to better treat brain-related health issues.

Dr. Sichen Shao's lab at Harvard Medical School focuses on understanding how red blood cells develop and function by studying a special enzyme called UBE2O. This enzyme helps to manage the proteins needed to form healthy red blood cells, which are essential for carrying oxygen throughout the body. By exploring the mechanisms behind protein quality control and degradation, the lab aims to uncover important factors related to blood disorders and potential new therapies.

Dr. Marcia Haigis's lab at Harvard Medical School focuses on understanding how cellular metabolism drives the initiation and progression of colorectal cancer (CRC). The research particularly investigates the role of a protein family called sirtuins, specifically SIRT4, in regulating metabolic changes associated with cancer and chemotherapy resistance. By exploring how SIRT4 influences cell growth and survival through metabolic pathways, the lab aims to pave the way for new and effective cancer therapies.

Dr. Richard T Lee's lab at Harvard University focuses on understanding the role of mitochondria and specific proteins in heart function and heart diseases, particularly cardiomyopathy. The lab uses advanced gene editing techniques to investigate mitochondrial DNA mutations and their effects on heart muscle cells, as well as the signaling roles of growth differentiation factors in heart health. This research aims to uncover crucial mechanisms that could lead to new therapies for mitochondrial diseases and heart-related conditions.

Dr. Dragana Rogulja's lab at Harvard Medical School investigates how the gut signals to the brain to influence sleep quality and arousability. The research focuses on the role of nutrients, particularly dietary proteins, in regulating the depth of sleep without affecting its duration. By studying Drosophila (fruit flies), the lab aims to better understand the mechanisms of sleep regulation, which could ultimately inform treatments for sleep disorders in humans.

The lab of Dr. Jeffrey W. Harper at Harvard Medical School focuses on understanding how a class of proteins called Cullin-Ring E3 ubiquitin ligases (CRLs) control various biological processes, including the cell cycle and stem cell differentiation. By using genetic and biochemical methods, the lab aims to uncover how these ligases target specific proteins for degradation, a crucial process for maintaining cellular function and integrity. Their research may reveal important insights into development, aging, and cancer biology, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies.

David Van Vactor's lab at Harvard Medical School studies how neurons change and adapt by looking at the role of microRNAs in synapse plasticity. Focusing on Drosophila, or fruit flies, the team examines the molecular mechanisms that enable synapses to remodel in response to neural activity, which is essential for memory and learning. Their research aims at identifying key genes and proteins involved in these processes, providing insights into how disruptions can lead to neurological disorders.

Dr. Carlos Ramon Ponce's lab at Harvard Medical School studies how drugs like MDMA and methamphetamine affect the brain's visual and social functions in nonhuman primates. By using advanced techniques in electrophysiology and machine learning, the lab examines the interplay between drug effects, social behavior, and visual processing. Their aim is to uncover mechanisms that could inform future treatments for substance use disorders.