Dr. Shizhen Emily Wang's lab at UC San Diego focuses on understanding how breast cancer cells influence the body’s hormone signaling systems, specifically glucocorticoids, to promote tumor progression and metastasis. The lab investigates the role of tiny vesicles secreted by these cancer cells in enhancing glucocorticoid production and aims to identify potential treatments that could counteract these effects. By exploring these mechanisms, the research may lead to better diagnostic tools and therapies for breast cancer patients.

Dr. Deborah Yelon's lab at UC San Diego focuses on understanding how the heart maintains its distinct chamber identities, particularly between the atria and ventricles, using zebrafish as a model organism. The lab explores the genetic pathways that reinforce these identities and examines how they can change under different conditions. This research aims to shed light on the mechanisms behind heart development and potential strategies for addressing congenital heart diseases.

Yimin Zou's research lab focuses on understanding how axons and dendrites grow and connect to form neural circuits. They study the Wnt signaling pathway, which plays a critical role in guiding these growth processes, especially after spinal cord injuries. By uncovering the mechanisms of axon guidance, the lab aims to contribute to repairing nervous system functions lost due to injury or neurodegenerative diseases.

Dr. Elina Zuniga's lab at UC San Diego focuses on understanding how the metabolism of body fat tissues influences the immune response to persistent viral infections. They investigate how different types of fat cells, particularly white and brown adipose tissues, impact the behavior and function of CD8 T cells, a type of immune cell crucial for controlling viral infections. This innovative research could lead to new treatments for chronic viral diseases by targeting metabolic pathways.