Arlene H. Sharpe · Microbiology & Immunology
Dr. Arlene H. Sharpe's lab at Harvard Medical School focuses on enhancing the body's immune response against tumors by investigating the role of one-carbon metabolism. The team studies how supplementing with certain metabolites can improve the effectiveness of cancer therapies that use immune checkpoint blockade. Their work aims to uncover the mechanisms behind these processes, ultimately leading to better treatments for cancer patients.
Maxim Prigozhin · Microbiology & Immunology
Dr. Maxim Prigozhin's lab at Harvard University focuses on advancing imaging techniques to study neural cells and tissues. By developing innovative probes, the lab aims to combine molecular and ultrastructural imaging methods to better understand how brain structures relate to their functions. This research is crucial for exploring the underlying causes of neurological disorders and enhancing our ability to visualize these complexities at the nanoscale.
Eric J. Rubin · Microbiology & Immunology
Dr. Eric J. Rubin's lab at Harvard University focuses on understanding and addressing the challenges posed by non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTMs), which are responsible for difficult-to-treat chronic infections. The lab investigates the molecular mechanisms that lead to inherent drug resistance in these pathogens and aims to identify new strategies to enhance the effectiveness of existing antibiotics and develop novel treatment options. By utilizing advanced genetic techniques and culture models, the team seeks to uncover potential therapeutic targets that could facilitate better management of NTM infections.
David Z Rudner · Microbiology & Immunology
David Z Rudner's lab at Harvard Medical School studies bacteria, particularly a type called Bacillus subtilis. They focus on how these bacteria grow, differentiate, and how they handle their chromosomes and cell walls during these processes. Understanding these fundamental mechanisms may lead to new treatments for bacterial infections and insights into cancer-related cell division failures.
Roger L Shapiro · Microbiology & Immunology
Dr. Roger L. Shapiro's lab at Harvard focuses on improving treatment strategies for children and pregnant women living with HIV. Their research emphasizes the use of broadly neutralizing antibodies as potential alternatives to traditional antiretroviral therapy (ART), with aims to enhance safety and effectiveness during sensitive developmental periods. The lab conducts clinical trials in Botswana to explore innovative approaches, including the safe interruption of ART, and addresses critical questions concerning treatment during pregnancy and infancy.
Jeff W Lichtman · Microbiology & Immunology
Dr. Jeff Lichtman's lab focuses on mapping the brain's intricate connections at the level of individual synapses, particularly in the mouse hippocampus, which plays a crucial role in memory and navigation. By using advanced imaging techniques, the lab aims to generate a comprehensive brain map that will enhance our understanding of how brain circuits function and how they may malfunction in diseases like Alzheimer’s. The research also emphasizes involving students in hands-on scientific processes to foster education and discovery.
Jun R. Huh · Microbiology & Immunology
Dr. Jun R. Huh's lab at Harvard Medical School studies how pregnancy-related immune changes affect brain development in fetuses, particularly focusing on the differences between male and female brains. The research aims to understand why neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder, are more common in males and how maternal immune factors play a role in shaping fetal brain vulnerability to stress. By examining the mechanisms involved, the lab aims to provide insights that could lead to better interventions for these disorders.
Amanda Joy Whipple · Microbiology & Immunology
Dr. Amanda Joy Whipple's research lab at Harvard University focuses on understanding how a specific molecular factor, SNORD116, contributes to Prader-Willi syndrome, a complex neurodevelopmental disorder. Her team is investigating the role of SNORD116 in the biology of neuronal ribosomes, which are essential for protein synthesis in brain cells. By exploring the interactions of SNORD116 and its implications for brain function, the lab aims to uncover potential therapeutic strategies for correcting the unique challenges associated with Prader-Willi syndrome and similar disorders.
Ulrich H Von Andrian · Microbiology & Immunology
Dr. Ulrich H. Von Andrian's lab at Harvard Medical School focuses on understanding how the immune system responds to infections, particularly in the nasal mucosa, which is often the first line of defense against airborne pathogens. The lab uses advanced microscopy techniques to study the dynamic behavior of immune cells like neutrophils and how they interact within different regions of the nasal cavity. Additionally, the lab explores the mechanisms behind lymphocyte trafficking in the body, investigating how certain blood vessels help immune cells reach their infection sites. This research has important implications for improving vaccine efficacy and developing treatments for diseases related to inflammation and cancer.