Dr. Scott Earley's lab at the University of Rochester focuses on understanding how the brain regulates blood flow through a network of specialized sensors known as TRP channels. These channels play a critical role in maintaining healthy microcirculation by responding to changes in the brain’s environment. The lab uses advanced techniques, such as imaging and genetics, to explore how these sensors work, especially during conditions like aging and related cerebrovascular diseases.

Dr. Paul Kammermeier's lab at the University of Rochester studies metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs), which are important proteins involved in brain signaling. The lab focuses on how these receptors interact with each other in pairs called dimers, particularly the differences between their homodimers and heterodimers. By developing new methods to isolate and study specific mGluR dimers, the lab aims to create a detailed atlas that will help in designing better drugs for various brain-related disorders.

Dr. Robert Dirksen's lab focuses on understanding tubular aggregate myopathy (TAM), a genetic muscle disease that affects strength and endurance. The team utilizes specially designed mouse models to explore the underlying mechanisms of this disease and to test potential treatments. Their work aims to provide new insights that could ultimately lead to effective therapies for people suffering from TAM.

Dr. Cesare Orlandi's lab at the University of Rochester focuses on understanding orphan G Protein Coupled Receptors (GPCRs), particularly GPR156, which is important for hearing and balance. The lab aims to identify both synthetic and naturally occurring compounds that can activate these receptors. This research could lead to new treatments for hearing disorders by exploring the underlying biology of these receptors and their interactions in the nervous system.

Dr. David Yule's research lab focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind saliva secretion in order to address conditions like dry mouth, which can severely affect quality of life. The lab employs a combination of experimental techniques and computer modeling to explore how salivary glands function normally and how these processes are disrupted in diseases such as Sjogren's syndrome. By investigating the cellular activities involved in saliva production, the lab hopes to develop new therapies for patients suffering from reduced saliva flow.

Dr. Houhui Xia's lab at the University of Rochester studies how different forms of protein phosphatase 1 (PP1) affect brain functions related to memory and learning. They use special mouse models to explore how these proteins impact synapses—the connections between neurons—by examining their roles in processes like synaptic transmission and long-term potentiation. Their findings could lead to new treatment strategies for neurodegenerative diseases.