Dr. Amy Kenter's lab studies how antibodies are formed by exploring the genetic rearrangements that create a diverse set of these crucial immune molecules. By mapping the three-dimensional structure of antibodies' genetic material, the lab aims to understand the factors that influence the selection and efficient use of these antibodies during immune responses. This research contributes to improving vaccine development by enhancing our knowledge of immune system function.

The research lab led by Dr. Teruyuki Sano focuses on understanding the behavior and adaptability of innate lymphoid cells (ILCs), which are important immune cells found in mucosal tissues like the intestines. The lab investigates how these cells can change into different types in response to their environment, especially during conditions like infection or inflammation. This research has implications for treating inflammatory diseases and could help in developing new therapies to manage immune responses.

The lab led by Dr. Lijun Rong at the University of Illinois at Chicago focuses on developing new antiviral therapies for Ebola viruses. They are working on optimizing small molecule inhibitors that could potentially treat or prevent infections caused by these highly dangerous viruses. Through innovative drug design and rigorous testing in animal models, the lab aims to provide effective options for combating Ebola virus disease.

Dr. Susan R. Ross's lab at the University of Illinois at Chicago focuses on understanding how mammals' immune responses can limit retroviral infections, such as those caused by murine leukemia virus (MLV). The research explores the mechanisms by which host proteins, particularly the APOBEC3 family, interact with viral processes like reverse transcription, to help inform potential therapies for curing or preventing diseases caused by HIV and other retroviruses. This is achieved through innovative mouse models and advanced molecular techniques.

Dr. Francis Alonzo's lab at the University of Illinois at Chicago studies how Staphylococcus aureus, a dangerous bacterium that causes many infections, survives in our bodies. They explore how the bacterium uses certain nutrients and lipids to evade the immune system and persist during infections. By understanding these processes, the lab aims to discover new ways to combat bacterial infections and improve treatment options.

Dr. Judith Behnsen's lab at the University of Illinois at Chicago studies the interactions between bacteria and fungi in the gut. They focus specifically on how the yeast Candida albicans affects infections caused by the bacterium Salmonella Typhimurium. Their research aims to understand the biological mechanisms that increase disease severity when these two pathogens coexist, which could lead to better treatments for polymicrobial infections.