Catherine D Mccusker's lab at the University of Massachusetts Boston studies how certain cells in axolotls, a type of salamander, can effectively regenerate limbs after injury. The lab focuses on the signaling pathways and epigenetic factors that allow these cells to respond to regenerative cues, aiming to uncover how to enhance regenerative abilities in mammals. Undergraduates in the lab gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge techniques to explore these fascinating biological processes.

Dr. Shailja Pathania's lab at the University of Massachusetts Boston focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms that lead to cancer in individuals with BRCA2 mutations, which significantly increase the risk for breast and ovarian cancer. The research investigates how the absence of the BRCA2 protein causes genomic instability, focusing on early cellular changes that transform normal cells into cancerous ones. This work not only aims to identify potential therapeutic targets for treating BRCA2-deficient tumors but also seeks to develop effective strategies for cancer prevention.