Dr. Steven A Sloan's lab at Emory University focuses on understanding how the human brain develops, particularly how certain cells in the brain switch from making neurons to making astrocytes, a type of glial cell. Using advanced models like human-derived brain organoids, the lab investigates the genetic and cellular mechanisms that regulate this transition, which is important for normal brain function and is disrupted in various developmental disorders. The research aims to uncover fundamental insights that could provide new strategies for treating neurodevelopmental diseases.

Dr. Fikri Birey’s lab at Emory University focuses on understanding how the brain develops by studying the signals that guide brain cells as they grow and differentiate. Using advanced technologies, the lab creates models of human brain tissue to explore how specific signals are integrated during brain formation. This research aims to reveal insights that could lead to new treatments for diseases related to brain development and function.

Dr. Karen Conneely's lab at Emory University focuses on understanding how genetic mutations in blood stem cells can influence the risk of cardiovascular diseases, particularly in older adults. They use advanced genomic technologies to analyze samples from large populations, looking at how DNA modifications and gene expression patterns change in individuals with clonal hematopoiesis. This research aims to uncover the biological pathways that connect these genetic changes to heart health.

Dr. Victor G. Corces and his lab at Emory University investigate how exposure to environmental chemicals like BPA can lead to health issues such as obesity and other diseases in future generations. Their research focuses on understanding the epigenetic changes that happen in germ cells and embryos when they are exposed to substances that disrupt hormone function. By studying these mechanisms, they hope to uncover the reasons why certain health risks can be inherited, despite not being present in earlier generations.

Dr. Peng Jin's lab focuses on understanding how certain elements of our DNA, particularly transposable elements (TEs) and dynamic DNA modifications, influence brain health and diseases like Alzheimer's. They investigate how a protein called TDP-43 affects these DNA elements and contributes to neurodegeneration, aiming to uncover new targets for potential treatments. The research combines genetics and epigenetics to shed light on complex brain processes and their implications for neurological disorders.

Dr. David Weinshenker's lab at Emory University focuses on understanding the role of neuromelanin in the degeneration of specific neurons in Alzheimer's disease. They are particularly interested in how these changes contribute to early symptoms like anxiety and cognitive impairment. Through innovative techniques, the lab aims to uncover mechanisms that could lead to new treatments and diagnostic tools for Alzheimer's disease.

Dr. Changsheng Zhao's lab at Emory University focuses on understanding how prostate cancer cells change their identity from luminal cells to neuroendocrine cells, a transition that is key to the progression of a lethal form of prostate cancer. By investigating the molecular mechanisms behind this transformation, the lab aims to identify new drug targets and biomarkers that could help in diagnosing and treating advanced prostate cancer. The lab employs innovative models and advanced genomic techniques to map these cellular changes over time.