Dr. Kenneth Stapleford's lab investigates how certain viruses, particularly alphaviruses like Chikungunya, infect humans and spread through insect vectors. By studying the molecular mechanisms behind these processes, his team aims to reveal how viral proteins adapt to different hosts and environments. This research can inform efforts to combat viral diseases and improve public health.

Michael J. Garabedian's lab focuses on developing innovative treatments for prostate cancer, particularly in cases where standard anti-androgen therapies fail. They are exploring a new class of molecules called peptoid conjugates, designed to effectively antagonize the androgen receptor and stop tumor growth. In addition to their anti-cancer properties, these peptoids may also stimulate the immune system to enhance cancer treatment effectiveness.

Dr. Benjamin R. Tenoever's lab focuses on how cells defend themselves against viral infections. They study a complex formed by the enzyme Drosha and the RNA-induced silencing complex, known as the ADAR-RISC Complex, which plays a role in antiviral responses. By understanding how this complex works, researchers hope to develop new therapies that can better combat viral diseases.

Professor Joel G. Belasco's lab at New York University School of Medicine focuses on understanding how bacterial messenger RNA (mRNA) is degraded. This research is crucial for determining how gene expression is regulated in bacteria, especially in relation to their pathogenesis and response to antibiotics. The lab investigates unique RNA modifications and uses various molecular techniques to uncover how these processes affect bacteria in different environments.

Dr. Ana Rodriguez's lab at NYU School of Medicine investigates how cerebral malaria disrupts the blood-brain barrier, which can lead to severe neurological symptoms and death. The lab focuses on understanding the role of the malaria parasite and its byproducts in this process, aiming to identify new potential treatments. Using cell models and animal studies, they are exploring molecular mechanisms that could help develop innovative therapies for this serious condition.

Dr. Kamal Mohan Khanna's lab focuses on the role of different macrophage populations in the lung and their functions during immune responses. The research explores how factors like obesity and diabetes can alter these immune responses, especially in the context of respiratory viral infections like COVID-19 and influenza. By understanding how these macrophages operate and adapt, the lab aims to develop new therapeutic strategies for improving immune function in affected individuals.

Dr. Liat Shenhav's lab at NYU School of Medicine investigates how early-life factors, particularly breastfeeding and the development of the microbiome, affect respiratory health in children. They are using advanced algorithms and animal studies to uncover the connections between microbial colonization and the risk of childhood asthma. By analyzing data from large birth cohorts, the lab aims to improve our understanding of how microbial communities influence health outcomes and identify new prevention strategies for respiratory diseases.

Dr. Jonas Schluter's lab at NYU School of Medicine is focused on understanding how the human gut microbiome relates to health and disease, especially in cancer patients. They study how the microbiome can influence drug effectiveness and how certain microbes may compete with harmful pathogens. Using advanced data analysis techniques, including machine learning, the lab aims to uncover new ways to engineer beneficial changes in the microbiome for therapeutic purposes.

Dr. Angus C. Wilson's lab studies how viruses, particularly the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1), manipulate host cell functions to enhance their replication. They explore the ways HSV-1 disrupts the host's genetic processes, particularly focusing on RNA processing and the cellular responses to stress that can trigger virus reactivation. Through their research, they hope to uncover new strategies to develop antiviral therapies against viral infections and understand their impact on the nervous system.