The research lab led by Dr. Lien Nguyen at the University of Florida focuses on understanding the genetic factors that influence Alzheimer's disease (AD), particularly the role of specific repeat expansions in the CASP8 gene. Their work aims to link these genetic variations to the development of toxic protein aggregates in the brain, which may drive the progression of AD. By investigating these mechanisms, they hope to uncover new therapeutic strategies to combat this widespread and debilitating condition.

Dr. Steeve Boulant's lab focuses on understanding how low oxygen levels in the gut affect the body's ability to fight off viral infections, particularly enteric viruses that can cause severe gastrointestinal diseases. By studying human intestinal epithelial cells and using innovative technologies like organ-on-a-chip, the lab investigates how different types of intestinal cells respond to these conditions and how this knowledge can lead to new treatments for infections and inflammatory bowel diseases.

Dr. Eric T Wang's lab focuses on improving gene therapies by leveraging alternative splicing, which is a way our genes can create different proteins. The lab works on making gene therapies safer and more effective by designing gene expressions that are specific to certain tissues in the body, reducing toxicity. With innovative approaches involving AAV (adeno-associated virus), the research aims to develop self-regulating gene therapies that can adapt to their environment, particularly for diseases affecting muscles and the nervous system.

Dr. Susana Valente's research lab at the University of Florida focuses on developing innovative therapies to combat HIV. The lab is particularly interested in transcriptional inhibitors, which can potentially silence the virus without ongoing therapy, aiming for a functional cure. By exploring various compounds and their effects on HIV transcription, the lab seeks to reduce inflammation and improve the quality of life for people living with HIV.

Dr. Megan Stanifer's lab at the University of Florida focuses on understanding how human intestinal cells respond to rotavirus infections. The team studies different types of interferons, proteins that help the body fight viruses, and how these proteins can be activated by various cellular pathways. Their research aims to improve strategies for combating rotavirus infections, especially in areas where vaccines are less effective.

Dr. Mauricio A Martins' lab at the University of Florida is focused on developing innovative gene therapies using adeno-associated viruses (AAV) to fight HIV. The team works to improve how these therapies can be safely administered to individuals with prior immunity to AAV, tackling a major obstacle in HIV treatment. They aim to create long-lasting immunity in infants to prevent pediatric HIV infections, especially in high-risk regions.

Dr. Stephanie M. Karst's lab at the University of Florida focuses on understanding how noroviruses cause diarrhea, particularly in young hosts. By using a special mouse model that simulates human disease, the lab investigates the interactions between the virus and the intestinal immune system. This research aims to uncover the mechanisms of norovirus pathogenesis to help combat severe gastrointestinal diseases associated with these viruses.

Dr. Laura P.W. Ranum's lab focuses on understanding diseases caused by repetitive DNA sequences, particularly how certain proteins related to these sequences (called RAN proteins) may contribute to neurodegenerative disorders like Huntington's disease and spinocerebellar ataxias. The lab uses advanced techniques to explore the effects of these RAN proteins on cells and developing potential treatments to inhibit their harmful effects.