Dr. Nathaniel L. Clark's lab focuses on connecting genetic information with specific traits seen in various species. By developing advanced computational tools, the lab studies how genetic changes lead to evolution in features like body size and metabolism. This research has broad implications, including the identification of traits relevant to human health and disease.

The research lab led by Dr. Sungjin Ko focuses on cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), a challenging cancer with low survival rates. They investigate how certain receptors in the liver, specifically the Farnesoid X-Activated Receptor (FXR) and Constitutive Androstane Receptor (CAR), contribute to the development of CCA, especially in patients with cholestatic diseases. The lab aims to find biomarkers for early detection and develop new therapies to improve treatment outcomes for patients with this aggressive form of cancer.

Dr. Daniel C Devor's lab at the University of Pittsburgh focuses on understanding how therapies for cystic fibrosis (CF) work and their potential side effects. By studying the modulation of potassium channels affected by CF treatments, the lab aims to uncover how these medications can improve lung function while also addressing adverse events experienced by some patients, such as headaches and anxiety. This research could lead to better therapies for people with CF, enhancing their quality of life.

Dr. Mo Reza Ebrahimkhani's lab focuses on creating advanced in vitro human organoids that mimic the structure and function of real human tissues. The research aims to improve the engineering of these organoids by using synthetic and systems biology methods, which can enhance their development and robustness. By utilizing genetically engineered clones and computational models, the lab seeks to address challenges in organoid maturity and diversity, ultimately contributing to advancements in regenerative medicine and reducing reliance on animal models.

Dr. Theresa L. Whiteside's lab at the University of Pittsburgh focuses on developing non-invasive biomarkers for patients with head and neck cancer. They study small extracellular vesicles (sEV), also known as exosomes, found in body fluids to help predict how patients will respond to therapies. By isolating and analyzing these vesicles from patient plasma, the lab aims to establish reliable indicators for prognosis and treatment effectiveness, potentially improving patient outcomes.

Dr. Ivona Vasile Pandrea's lab at the University of Pittsburgh focuses on understanding the impact of antiretroviral therapy (ART) on HIV/SIV infection and its relationship with metabolic disorders. The lab explores how factors like inflammation in adipose tissue and adenosine signaling pathways contribute to disease progression in people living with HIV. Their research aims to develop therapeutic strategies that can improve immune function and reduce comorbidities associated with ART-induced weight gain and inflammation.

Dr. Swaminathan Smita Iyer's lab focuses on developing innovative HIV vaccines that enhance the immune response to provide long-lasting protection against the virus. The research specifically investigates CD4 T follicular helper cells, which play a crucial role in stimulating B cells to produce antibodies. By experimenting with different vaccine platforms and adjuvants, the lab aims to improve the durability and effectiveness of HIV antibodies, contributing to the development of more effective vaccines.

Craig Kaplan's lab at the University of Pittsburgh focuses on understanding the mechanisms of gene transcription in eukaryotic cells, particularly how RNA Polymerase II initiates and elongates transcription. Using yeast as a model organism, his team investigates how transcription start sites are selected and how transcription interacts with processes like RNA splicing and chromatin remodeling. Their research has broader implications for understanding gene expression and its links to diseases caused by transcription errors.

Dr. Yuan Chang's lab at the University of Pittsburgh focuses on understanding how the Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) persists in the human body and the mechanisms that can lead it to cause cancer. Their research delves into the virus's ability to control its replication and achieve a state of latency, which allows it to evade the immune system over long periods. By utilizing advanced techniques, they aim to unravel the intricate relationship between MCPyV and host cellular factors, shedding light on the development of targeted therapies for skin cancers caused by this virus.

Dr. Anne-Ruxandra Carvunis' lab focuses on discovering the functions and evolutionary significance of microproteins, which are tiny proteins that have recently been found to be abundant but are often overlooked in genetic studies. They study how these microproteins evolve quickly and how the immune system influences their function, potentially linking them to autoimmune diseases. This research aims to better understand these previously unknown molecules, which could lead to new treatments for autoimmune conditions.

Dr. Charleen T Chu's lab focuses on understanding how a protein called PINK1 affects brain cells, particularly in conditions like Parkinson's disease and Lewy body dementia. By studying how PINK1 regulates the structure and function of dendrites, which are vital for neuronal communication and memory, the lab aims to uncover new approaches for preventing cognitive decline associated with neurodegenerative diseases.

Dr. Aatur Dilip Singhi's lab at the University of Pittsburgh focuses on understanding non-functional pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (NF-PanNETs), which are complex and varied tumors that can behave aggressively. The research aims to identify new biomarkers that can help predict how these tumors grow and spread. By studying the genetic and epigenetic changes that occur in these tumors, the lab hopes to improve patient outcomes through better prognostic tools and understanding of tumor behavior.

Dr. Kirill Kiselyov's lab at the University of Pittsburgh focuses on understanding how neuronal cells die in Alzheimer's disease, particularly the role of a protein called GDAP1 in protecting against oxidative damage. The lab investigates the relationship between GDAP1 levels and a harmful compound known as 4-hydroxynonenal (4HNE), which accumulates in the brains of Alzheimer's patients. By studying cellular mechanisms in neuronal models, the lab aims to uncover potential therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's disease.

Dr. Jon P. Boyle's lab at the University of Pittsburgh focuses on understanding how the placenta interacts with the teratogenic pathogen Toxoplasma gondii, which can cause significant harm to fetuses if transmitted during pregnancy. The lab investigates the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind the placental resistance to this pathogen and aims to find predictive markers for infection outcomes. By conducting experiments on placental cells and analyzing immune responses in pregnant women, the research seeks to improve our understanding of congenital toxoplasmosis and maternal-fetal health.