Dr. M. Firoze Khan's lab focuses on understanding how exposure to a chemical called trichloroethene (TCE), which is found in many environments, can lead to autoimmune diseases, particularly systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The lab studies how changes in the gut microbiome, the diverse community of microorganisms in our intestines, might play a role in this process. By investigating the relationship between TCE exposure and gut health, the lab aims to uncover new insights into disease mechanisms and potential treatments.

Dr. Alexander Bukreyev's lab focuses on understanding how the immune system improperly responds to Ebola virus infection. The research aims to identify the molecular mechanisms that cause both excessive inflammation and immune paralysis in affected individuals. By studying these processes, the lab hopes to contribute to the development of effective treatments for Ebola virus and similar viral infections.

Cheng Huang's research lab at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston focuses on understanding the biology of the Lassa virus, which causes Lassa fever, a significant health threat in West Africa. The lab is investigating a specific protein called the nucleoprotein (NP) that helps the virus evade the immune system and maintains the virus's genetic integrity. By studying how NP reduces errors during RNA replication, the lab aims to develop better treatments and vaccines against Lassa fever.

Dr. Slobodan Paessler's lab focuses on understanding and combating arenavirus infections, which cause serious diseases like hemorrhagic fevers. The team is investigating how these viruses rely on certain sugars, namely D-glucose and D-mannose, to survive and replicate. By exploring innovative antiviral strategies, including the use of sugar mimetics, the lab aims to develop new treatment options that could protect against outbreaks and save lives.

Dr. Jere McBride's research focuses on understanding how the intracellular bacterium Ehrlichia chaffeensis, which causes a serious tick-borne disease in humans, manipulates host cell machinery to enhance its survival and replication. The lab investigates the role of specific proteins that Ehrlichia secretes to alter RNA splicing processes in human cells, particularly those involved in immune responses. By exploring these molecular interactions, the research aims to uncover new therapeutic strategies to combat this pathogen and similar intracellular infections.