Dr. Vladimir Badovinac's lab at the University of Iowa focuses on understanding how radiation exposure affects the immune system, particularly memory CD8 T cells that are crucial for fighting infections. The lab aims to uncover the mechanisms behind radiation-induced immune dysfunction and identify strategies to improve the function and numbers of these important immune cells after exposure. Their research could lead to better medical countermeasures for individuals exposed to radiation, whether accidentally or intentionally.

Dr. Rajalekshmy Shyam's lab at the University of Iowa focuses on understanding Fuchs Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy (FECD), a condition that causes vision loss and currently has no cure. By using a newly developed mouse model that exhibits FECD characteristics, the lab aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that drive the disease's onset and progression. The ultimate goal is to identify potential therapies and promote corneal health.

Dr. Kevin Legge's lab at the University of Iowa focuses on developing new vaccination strategies against Influenza A viruses, particularly those from avian sources. They are exploring the use of polyanhydride nanoparticles to create a novel vaccine that can induce strong immune responses in the lungs and nasal passages, aiming for broad protection against various strains of the virus. Their research has the potential to improve how vaccines work by promoting long-lasting immunity that is not typically achieved by current vaccines.

Dr. Bing Li's lab focuses on understanding how a high fat diet leads to obesity and increases the risk of breast cancer. They study a protein called A-FABP, which plays a key role in this connection, particularly in how it interacts with immune cells and cancer cells. By uncovering these mechanisms, the lab aims to identify new ways to prevent breast cancer in individuals with obesity and evaluate A-FABP as a potential biomarker for monitoring breast cancer risk.

Dr. John T. Harty's lab focuses on understanding how malaria impacts the immune system, particularly how prior exposure to the disease can hinder effective vaccination. The research primarily investigates CD8 T cell responses and the role of hemozoin, a byproduct of malaria infection, in compromising these immune responses. By studying these mechanisms, the lab aims to improve vaccine efficacy against malaria, especially in regions where the disease is endemic.

Dr. Steven H Green's lab at the University of Iowa focuses on understanding how noise exposure affects hearing, particularly through the damage of cochlear synapses. They are investigating the role of sex hormones like progesterone in protecting against this type of damage and ways to promote synapse regeneration after noise trauma, with an emphasis on sex differences in susceptibility. This research could lead to new treatments for hearing impairments that result from noise exposure.

Dr. Ling Yang's lab at the University of Iowa focuses on understanding how lysosomal dysfunction affects heart health, specifically in the context of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). The lab uses innovative methods to study the role of lysosomes in controlling metabolic processes and inflammation in heart cells, aiming to uncover new therapeutic strategies for managing heart disease. Overall, the research will improve our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying cardiovascular health and disease.