Jochen Buck · Pharmacology
Jochen Buck's lab at Weill Medical College focuses on understanding male fertility and sperm function, particularly during the process of capacitation, when sperm become capable of fertilizing an egg. The lab aims to develop non-hormonal contraceptive methods by designing inhibitors that target specific enzymes, with the goal of creating a safe and effective male birth control pill. This research not only addresses fundamental questions about male reproductive biology but also has significant implications for contraceptive development.
John Blenis · Pharmacology
Dr. John Blenis's lab at Weill Medical College focuses on understanding the intricate signaling pathways that regulate cancer cell growth, metabolism, and resistance to therapy. The lab investigates how tumor cells can exploit metabolic processes, like propionate metabolism, to enhance their invasive capabilities and respond to treatment. By delving into mechanisms like mTORC1 signaling and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), the research aims to identify new therapeutic targets and biomarkers to improve cancer intervention.
Samie R Jaffrey · Pharmacology
Dr. Samie Jaffrey's lab at Weill Medical College focuses on understanding how chemical modifications in RNA molecules influence gene expression and cellular behavior, particularly in the context of cancer and neuronal function. The lab employs innovative techniques to map and analyze these modifications, contributing to the emerging field of epitranscriptomics. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and advanced methodologies, the lab seeks to unravel the complex regulatory mechanisms governing RNA and its impact on health and disease.
Yue Yang · Pharmacology
Dr. Yue Yang's lab focuses on understanding how obesity affects pancreatic beta cells, which are essential for insulin production. They investigate the role of NAD+, a metabolite that supports cell function and survival, and how its depletion contributes to diabetes. By exploring new compounds that boost NAD+ levels, they aim to develop innovative therapies to treat Type 2 Diabetes and restore beta cell function.
Taha Merghoub · Pharmacology
Dr. Taha Merghoub's lab focuses on understanding the complex role of neutrophils in cancer treatment, particularly how they can both help and harm patients undergoing immunotherapy. The research aims to identify how these immune cells can effectively destroy tumors while also preventing severe side effects associated with treatment. By studying neutrophils in various cancer models and in patient samples, the lab seeks to develop more precise and safer cancer therapies that effectively harness the body's immune response against tumors.