Dr. Scott M. Landfear's lab at Oregon Health & Science University studies the biology of Leishmania parasites, which cause significant infectious diseases in humans. The lab focuses on understanding the flagellum, a whip-like structure that plays critical roles in the parasite's movement and ability to infect hosts. By investigating how specific proteins traffic to the flagellar membrane and their functions, the research aims to uncover new strategies for controlling these deadly parasites.

Dr. Bahareh Ajami's lab at Oregon Health & Science University focuses on understanding the role of a specific protein, alpha5 integrin, in the development of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a serious neurodegenerative condition. The research investigates how immune cells, particularly myeloid cells, influence the disease and how targeting alpha5 integrin could be a new approach for treatment. By using genetic models and advanced cellular systems, the lab aims to uncover mechanisms that may lead to better therapies for ALS patients.

David C. Johnson's lab focuses on understanding how the human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) enters host cells, particularly epithelial and endothelial cells. Their research aims to identify and characterize specific cell surface proteins that HCMV uses to infect these cells, which is crucial for developing effective vaccines against the virus. With implications for transplant patients and neonates, this work seeks to uncover new strategies for preventing HCMV-related diseases.

Dr. Jonathan N Pruneda’s lab focuses on understanding how bacteria interact with the immune system by manipulating a protein signaling system known as ubiquitin. The lab specifically investigates a less-studied form of ubiquitin signaling called Lys6 polyubiquitin, looking at how bacterial pathogens use this to evade immune responses and affect protein degradation in host cells. This research could reveal new strategies for combating bacterial infections and developing therapeutics.