Dr. Kristina M. Adams Waldorf's lab focuses on understanding how maternal viral infections, such as Zika virus, impact the developing fetal immune system and brain health. The lab uses advanced models to analyze how infections can influence immune programming and cellular responses in the fetus, with the aim of developing new therapeutic strategies for fetal protection against infection-induced damage.

Dr. Joshua Woodward's research lab at the University of Washington focuses on understanding how the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes causes infections, particularly by colonizing the gallbladder. This lab investigates the unique environment of the gallbladder, which can harbor various pathogens, to identify which genes and biological pathways enable Listeria to thrive there. The findings could lead to new strategies for preventing the spread of this and other foodborne infections.

Dr. Megan A. O'Connor's lab at the University of Washington focuses on understanding how HIV infection impacts the severity of COVID-19 in immunocompromised individuals. The research investigates the interactions between SARS-CoV-2 and the immune system during HIV infection, with a special emphasis on the microbiome's role in disease progression. By using nonhuman primate models, the lab aims to uncover the mechanisms that lead to severe disease outcomes in patients with both infections, potentially guiding therapeutic strategies.

Dr. Michael Gerner's lab at the University of Washington focuses on understanding how different areas within lymphoid tissues help shape the body's immune responses. The team uses advanced imaging techniques to explore how various immune cells interact during inflammation and vaccination, aiming to uncover the mechanisms behind the formation of distinct immune responses. Their research has implications for better vaccine designs and therapies to enhance immune function.

Dr. Marion Pepper's lab at the University of Washington studies how certain immune cells influence asthma, a common respiratory condition. The lab focuses on understanding specific types of memory T cells that respond to allergens found in house dust mites. By examining how these cells behave over time and in response to allergens, the research aims to uncover new ways to improve asthma treatments and prevent severe allergic reactions.

Dr. Ram Savan's lab at the University of Washington focuses on understanding how a specific protein modification called prenylation contributes to the body's defenses against viral infections. By studying how this modification affects the behavior and function of antiviral proteins, the lab aims to uncover new ways to enhance antiviral immunity and develop novel therapeutic targets for treating viral diseases. This research holds significant potential for advancing our knowledge of the immune system and improving public health responses to viral threats.

Dr. Ferric C. Fang's lab at the University of Washington focuses on understanding enteric fever caused by Salmonella bacteria. The lab utilizes innovative models, including humanized mice, to study how Salmonella Typhi and Salmonella Paratyphi A evade the immune system and persist in the host. Their research aims to uncover new strategies for preventing and treating infections related to these pathogens.

Dr. Daniel B. Stetson's lab at the University of Washington focuses on enhancing cancer immunotherapy by manipulating the body's immune response to tumors. Specifically, the research investigates a novel pathway that uses DNA repair mechanisms to activate immune responses against tumors, particularly in cases where standard treatments have failed. By using humanized mouse models and other advanced techniques, the lab aims to develop new therapeutic strategies that could lead to more effective treatments for cancer.

Dr. Elia D. Tait Wojno's lab at the University of Washington focuses on understanding how the body responds to gut parasites and allergens, especially in relation to inflammation. The research emphasizes the role of a specific lipid and its receptor, which are crucial in managing inflammation in the intestines. By studying how these factors interact, the lab aims to uncover new ways to treat conditions related to inflammation in the gut.