Dr. Riqiang Yan's lab focuses on understanding the role of the enzyme BACE1 in Alzheimer's disease, particularly how inhibiting this enzyme in glial cells might help reduce harmful amyloid and tau pathologies in the brain. The lab conducts experiments using transgenic mouse models to explore innovative treatments that enhance the immune response of microglia, which are crucial for clearing out these toxic substances. The ultimate goal is to develop safer therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's patients.

Dr. Byoung-Il Bae's laboratory focuses on understanding how the human brain develops, particularly the large and folded areas of the cerebral cortex that are different in humans compared to mice. They investigate the role of a gene called ASPM, which when lost leads to brain disorders like microcephaly. Using innovative animal models such as ferrets and advanced technologies, their research aims to reveal how unique developmental processes in gyrencephalic mammals contribute to human brain health and disease.

Dr. Stephen J. Crocker's research focuses on understanding the immune system's role in globoid cell leukodystrophy (GLD), a severe genetic brain disorder. His lab investigates how CD8 T cells contribute to the disease's progression and pathology, utilizing mouse models and advanced genetic techniques. The aim is to uncover potential therapeutic targets to better manage or treat this devastating condition that currently lacks effective interventions.

Dr. Zhao-Wen Wang's lab at the University of Connecticut focuses on understanding how certain proteins interact with potassium channels to affect sleep and neurotransmitter release. Their research utilizes a model organism, C. elegans, to uncover how a specific type of potassium channel, called the BK channel, works in the nervous system. They explore the role of melatonin in this process, aiming to reveal important cellular pathways that could impact our understanding of sleep regulation and related disorders.

The research lab of Dr. Royce Mohan at the University of Connecticut focuses on understanding injuries to the cornea caused by chemical agents like sulfur mustard. They investigate the molecular changes that occur in response to these injuries, particularly how specific proteins are modified and how sensory nerve cells in the cornea are affected. This research aims to identify new biological markers and targets for improving recovery from such damage.

Dr. Rajkumar Verma's lab at the University of Connecticut focuses on developing new treatments for ischemic stroke using innovative RNA inhibitors. The lab studies microRNAs, specifically the miR-141-3p family, which are found to be significantly upregulated in stroke patients. By creating advanced peptide nucleic acid (PNA) analogs that inhibit this microRNA, the research aims to reduce stroke injury and improve long-term recovery outcomes in animal models. Their work emphasizes the potential of miRNA-targeted therapy as a novel approach to address stroke-related disabilities.