Julian Stelzer · Physiology
Dr. Julian Stelzer's research lab at Case Western Reserve University focuses on understanding genetic mutations in the cardiac myosin binding protein C (cMyBP-C) and how these mutations lead to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a condition that can cause heart failure. The lab combines molecular biology, biophysics, and computer modeling to study how specific mutations affect heart muscle function and to develop predictive tools for better treatment strategies. Their goal is to identify which genetic variants pose the greatest risk to patients and to improve clinical outcomes.
Matthias Buck · Physiology
Dr. Matthias Buck's lab at Case Western Reserve University focuses on the role of Eph receptors in cell signaling related to blood vessel formation and neurological diseases like Alzheimer's. His research aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind Eph receptor interactions, particularly how these proteins affect the integrity of the blood-brain barrier. This work is significant because understanding these mechanisms can contribute to developing new diagnostic tools and therapies for neurodegenerative and vascular diseases.
Tingwei Mu · Physiology
Dr. Tingwei Mu's lab focuses on understanding how misfolding of GABAA receptors leads to genetic epilepsies, which are caused by the loss of function in these crucial proteins. The lab investigates how these receptors are properly folded and trafficked to the cell membrane, as errors in this process can contribute to severe neurological disorders. The ultimate goal is to find new therapeutic strategies to correct the function of misfolded receptors in patients with epilepsy.
Xin Qi · Physiology
Dr. Xin Qi's lab focuses on understanding the underlying mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease (AD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/frontotemporal dementia (ALS/FTD). The lab investigates proteins that influence neuronal health, mitochondrial function, and lipid metabolism, aiming to identify new therapeutic targets that could lead to effective treatments. Overall, their research strives to uncover how disruptions in these processes contribute to disease progression and cognitive deficits.