Dr. Eva De Alba Bastarrechea's lab at UC Merced focuses on understanding how inflammasomes, which are complexes in immune cells, regulate inflammation in response to infections or tissue damage. By studying the molecular dynamics of proteins involved in these complexes, her research aims to uncover new targets for anti-inflammatory therapies. The lab employs advanced techniques to visualize and manipulate these proteins, contributing to the development of drugs for various inflammatory diseases, including cancer and autoimmune disorders.

Dr. Joel A. Spencer's research lab focuses on understanding how the vascular system and endothelial cells contribute to the regeneration of the thymus after chemotherapy. By using advanced imaging techniques, the lab aims to reveal how these blood vessels behave after treatment, which can impact the recovery of the immune system. The work has implications for improving therapies for blood cancers and enhancing immune function post-treatment.