Dr. Ziaur Rahman's lab at Thomas Jefferson University focuses on understanding autoimmune diseases, particularly systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). His research investigates how specific metabolic pathways and regulatory molecules in B cells contribute to the development of autoreactive cells and disease progression. The lab aims to identify potential therapeutic targets to improve treatments for SLE and related conditions.

Dr. Lucia R. Languino's lab at Thomas Jefferson University focuses on understanding and targeting Neuroendocrine Prostate Cancer (NEPC), a rapidly advancing and treatment-resistant form of prostate cancer. The lab investigates how tumor cells adapt and metastasize in response to therapy, aiming to identify new therapeutic targets. Their work combines various projects that explore cellular communication, mitochondrial dysfunction, and the tumor microenvironment surrounding NEPC.

Luis J Sigal's lab focuses on understanding how modified mRNA vaccines can stimulate the immune system to produce memory CD8 T-cells that protect against viral infections. Their research particularly investigates the mechanisms behind these vaccines encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles and their potential to fight respiratory viruses like SARS-CoV-2 as well as viruses that cause systemic infections, such as monkeypox. This work aims to enhance vaccine designs for better protection in humans and may lead to breakthroughs in both infectious disease and cancer therapies.

Dr. Botond Z Igyarto's lab at Thomas Jefferson University focuses on understanding how mRNA-LNP vaccines impact our immune system, particularly through mechanisms known as trained immunity. The research investigates not only the immediate immune responses to these vaccines but also their potential long-term effects across generations. By using advanced techniques such as single-cell analysis and mouse models, the lab aims to shed light on how vaccination may alter genetic factors in immune cells and influence our ability to respond to infections.

Dr. Matthias Johannes Schnell's lab focuses on developing a new vaccine against the Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV), a dangerous pathogen with high fatality rates. The lab uses innovative vaccine platforms based on inactivated rabies and vesicular stomatitis viruses to generate protective immunity against CCHFV. They work on understanding how these vaccines work and aim to create a safer method for vaccine testing using animal models, ultimately contributing to public health safety.