Dr. Shusheng Wang's lab at Tulane University focuses on studying the effects of aging and cigarette smoke on the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and its role in age-related macular degeneration (AMD). They investigate how mitochondrial dysfunction induced by these factors can lead to different RPE phenotypes, potentially contributing to the disease. The lab aims to understand the mechanisms driving this heterogeneity and to identify potential therapeutic targets for treating dry AMD.

Dr. Yan Dong's lab at Tulane University focuses on understanding how prostate cancer develops resistance to hormone therapies by studying the role of RNA-binding proteins, particularly the androgen receptor (AR). The lab explores innovative approaches to target AR's RNA interactions, which could lead to new treatment strategies for prostate cancer patients. By shedding light on the mechanisms that contribute to cancer progression, this research aims to improve therapeutic outcomes for those affected by prostate cancer.

Dr. Wenke Feng's lab at Tulane University focuses on understanding how gut-derived substances, especially from probiotics, influence liver health in the context of alcohol-associated liver diseases. The research explores the role of specific molecules in regulating bile acid and lipid synthesis, aiming to find new therapeutic strategies for better managing liver diseases associated with alcohol consumption.

Dr. Prasun K Datta's lab focuses on understanding the connections between age, HIV, and neurocognitive disorders in people living with HIV. They study how lactate, a byproduct of metabolism, may influence brain health and cognitive function in these individuals, particularly as they age. The research uses nonhuman primate models and explores potential therapeutic approaches to improve the neurological outcomes for those affected by HIV.

Dr. Huanbin Xu's lab focuses on finding effective early treatment strategies to achieve HIV remission in infants. They conduct research using infant macaque models to explore how timely interventions can lead to sustained viral suppression without the need for antiviral treatment. The lab aims to improve prevention methods for mother-to-child transmission of HIV and advance the understanding of how infant immune systems respond to infections and treatments.

Zhen Lin's lab at Tulane University focuses on understanding the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and its role in various diseases, particularly in patients with HIV/AIDS. They investigate how EBV switches between dormancy and active replication, and how this process can lead to cancer and autoimmune diseases. A significant aspect of their research is exploring newly discovered types of RNAs, called alpha-satellite RNAs, that may play crucial roles in EBV's viral lifecycle and its interaction with host cells.

Dr. Jennifer Manuzak's lab at Tulane University focuses on understanding the interactions between HIV and malaria, particularly in pregnant women. By studying how these infections affect the immune system, the lab aims to identify potential treatments to improve health outcomes for mothers and infants. This research is especially important in areas where both diseases are common, as it could lead to new therapeutic strategies that reduce risks associated with these infections during pregnancy.

Dr. Xuebin Qin's research focuses on understanding the roles of renal macrophages and the complement system in kidney diseases and severe COVID-19. In particular, they are studying how signaling pathways affect the behavior and longevity of renal macrophages, which are critical for kidney health. The lab also investigates how the complement system contributes to blood vessel damage during severe COVID-19 and explores potential therapies to mitigate these effects.