Dr. Brian D. Gulbransen's lab at Michigan State University studies how certain cells in the gut, called enteric glia, influence the way our intestines move. They focus on understanding how inflammation can change the way these glial cells and nerve cells interact, which may lead to problems like irritable bowel syndrome. Their research aims to provide new insights that can help develop better treatments for gut motility disorders.

Dr. Alfred J Robison's lab at Michigan State University focuses on understanding how innate immune cells called mast cells function in stress and disease. They investigate the genetic and transcriptional mechanisms that regulate these cells, looking for ways to develop new treatments for conditions like allergies, infections, and mood disorders. The lab also studies how stress affects brain circuits, particularly in men and women, to identify sex-specific factors that contribute to resilience in mood disorders.

Dr. Xianshuang Liu's lab focuses on understanding how gut bacteria communication influences diabetic peripheral neuropathy, a serious complication of diabetes. The lab studies small particles called extracellular vesicles, which carry signals between cells and can affect inflammation and nerve health. Their research could lead to new treatments for patients suffering from this painful condition.