Dr. Hallgeir Rui's lab at Thomas Jefferson University focuses on understanding the complex mechanisms behind breast cancer, particularly the aggressive forms that resist treatment. Their research seeks to uncover why certain breast cancers, especially those that are estrogen receptor-positive and have a mixed luminal-basal phenotype, become resistant to therapies. The lab aims to develop better diagnostic tools and new treatment strategies to improve outcomes for patients with these challenging cancers.

Dr. Bruno Calabretta's lab at Thomas Jefferson University focuses on developing innovative treatments for specific types of leukemia, particularly B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL). They explore how to 'reprogram' leukemia cells to become less aggressive and more likely to undergo cell maturation and death. The lab uses cutting-edge techniques to inhibit proteins that help leukemia cells proliferate and survive, aiming to improve therapy for patients with resistant forms of leukemia.

Dr. Marja T Nevalainen's lab focuses on understanding and overcoming treatment resistance in advanced prostate cancer. The research specifically investigates how the Jak2 signaling pathway contributes to the persistent expression of androgen receptors in prostate cancer cells, which leads to disease progression despite existing therapies. By targeting Jak2 with new inhibitors, the lab aims to develop more effective treatments for patients with castrate-resistant prostate cancer.

Dr. Scott A. Waldman's lab focuses on understanding and targeting visceral pain, particularly related to disorders like irritable bowel syndrome and chronic constipation. They study the role of specific intestinal cells and hormones in regulating nerve activity that contributes to pain, with the aim of developing new, more effective pain relief therapies without major side effects. By investigating a novel signaling pathway in the gut, they hope to translate their findings into innovative treatments for patients suffering from chronic visceral pain.