Dr. Matthew Barrett's research lab focuses on understanding cognitive fluctuations in Lewy body dementia, a common but poorly understood symptom causing unpredictable lapses in attention and alertness. The lab investigates how degeneration of cholinergic neurons in the brain contributes to these cognitive impairments and evaluates potential therapeutic interventions. By combining imaging techniques with cognitive assessments, the lab aims to develop new strategies to better monitor and treat patients suffering from this condition.

Dr. Nicholas Elwood Johnson's lab focuses on understanding congenital myotonic dystrophy, a severe muscle disorder affecting infants and children. The team investigates the molecular changes in RNA and gene expression that occur during the disease's progression. By studying muscle samples from affected individuals at various ages, they aim to uncover the underlying mechanisms of the disease and identify potential new therapies to help treat these patients.

Dr. Laxmikant Deshpande's lab at Virginia Commonwealth University focuses on understanding and treating the neurological impacts of organophosphate exposure, which can lead to status epilepticus (SE) and long-term brain damage. The lab is exploring verapamil, a medication commonly used for heart conditions, as a potential therapy to protect the brain and reduce inflammation caused by organophosphate toxicity. They use animal models to assess the effectiveness of this treatment and its impact on cognitive function and seizures.

Dr. Pamela E. Knapp's lab focuses on the effects of abnormal Tau protein on brain health, specifically regarding cognitive dysfunction in individuals with HIV and opioid use disorder. The lab uses animal models to investigate how Tau (specifically its phosphorylated form, pTau) contributes to neurological impairments. The research aims to uncover if targeting pTau can improve cognitive outcomes for these populations by examining neuronal function and behavior over time.

Dr. Audrey D. Lafrenaye's lab at Virginia Commonwealth University focuses on understanding how brain injury affects neuroinflammatory responses, specifically through the actions of microglia, the brain's immune cells. The lab uses higher-order mammals, like micro pigs, to study microglial behaviors and their potential effects on brain recovery. This research aims to improve our understanding of traumatic brain injury and guide the development of effective treatments for patients suffering from such injuries.

Dr. Peter Hamilton's research lab focuses on how specific brain proteins, known as transcription factors, influence behaviors related to drug addiction. By using innovative synthetic biology techniques, they explore the differences between how stimulants and opioids affect the brain, particularly in a region called the nucleus accumbens. Their work aims to identify new treatment targets for drug addiction, potentially leading to better medications.

Wenhui Hu's lab at Virginia Commonwealth University focuses on developing innovative gene therapies to eliminate the HIV virus from infected cells, with a particular emphasis on brain and immune cells. They utilize advanced techniques in genome editing, specifically CRISPR/Cas systems, to create targeted delivery mechanisms that effectively reach HIV reservoirs in the body. Through their research, they hope to contribute to finding a permanent cure for HIV and addressing associated cognitive disorders.