Dr. Mingjiang Xu's lab at the University of Texas Health Science Center focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) regulation. The research aims to identify novel therapeutic targets, like the protein PSPC1, to improve treatment outcomes for AML, a challenging blood cancer. The lab also investigates the role of RNA modifications and specific proteins in regulating stem cell function, which could lead to new treatments for hematological malignancies.

Dr. Tim H.-M. Huang's lab at the University of Texas Health Science Center focuses on understanding the role of tumor-macrophage hybrid cells in prostate cancer progression, particularly in cases resistant to traditional androgen receptor signaling inhibitors. These hybrid cells may help cancer evade the immune system and spread throughout the body. This research aims to uncover new treatment strategies against advanced prostate cancer by profiling these unique cells and their mechanisms.

Dr. Raushan Kurmasheva's lab focuses on improving cancer treatment for children and adolescents through innovative research using patient-derived tumor models. They aim to discover new drugs and therapies that are more effective and less toxic than current treatments, leveraging models that reflect the unique genetic characteristics of high-risk pediatric tumors. Their work is crucial for developing targeted therapies that can significantly enhance survival rates and reduce long-term health complications for young cancer patients.

Dr. Mengwei Zang's lab focuses on understanding the intricate processes behind alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD), particularly how RNA splicing contributes to lipid metabolism disorders related to this condition. The lab aims to uncover the molecular roles of serine-arginine rich protein kinase 2 (SRPK2) and fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) in modulating liver health and how these proteins can serve as potential targets for new therapies in ALD. Their research also involves the development of novel treatments aimed at reversing the damages caused by excessive alcohol consumption on the liver.

Dr. Pawel A. Osmulski's lab focuses on understanding how cells stick to each other and their environment, which is crucial for cancer research and tissue health. The team is developing advanced technology using atomic force microscopy to measure and visualize the adhesive properties of live cells. This innovative approach aims to identify the factors that contribute to cell adhesion, especially in aggressive cancer types, to improve diagnosis and treatment strategies.

Dr. Thomas G. Boyer's lab focuses on understanding uterine fibroids, which are non-cancerous tumors affecting women's health. The research investigates how specific molecular changes, particularly in RNA modifications, contribute to the formation and progression of these tumors. By studying these mechanisms, the lab aims to develop new therapeutic approaches to treat uterine fibroids more effectively.