Dr. Zachary A. Knight's lab at UCSF studies how the brain controls feeding behavior, focusing on the neural circuits that regulate when we stop eating and how we learn to prefer calorie-rich foods. They investigate the dynamics of specific brain regions, particularly the caudal nucleus of the solitary tract and the amygdala, to understand how internal signals influence our eating habits and preferences. Their research aims to uncover mechanisms that could inform strategies to combat obesity.

Dr. Yuh Nung Jan's lab at UCSF focuses on understanding how dendrites, the branches of neurons that receive signals, develop and regenerate. The lab uses fruit flies to uncover the genetic and molecular mechanisms that control these processes. This research is important since defects in dendrite development can be linked to neurological disorders like autism and Down syndrome. By studying how neurons communicate and respond to injury, the lab aims to contribute to potential treatments for these conditions.

Dr. Kaveh Ashrafi's lab at UCSF focuses on understanding how metabolism influences learning and memory, particularly during aging. They study the kynurenine pathway and the role of a steroid hormone called ADIOL, aiming to uncover mechanisms that could improve cognitive function in the context of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. By using model organisms like C. elegans, the lab explores how changes in metabolic pathways affect brain health and learning capabilities.

Dr. David Julius's lab at UCSF focuses on understanding how we perceive pain through the study of specialized nerve fibers called nociceptors. His team investigates the molecular and physiological mechanisms that allow these nociceptors to detect harmful stimuli and transmit pain signals, especially in the context of chronic pain conditions like arthritis and gastrointestinal disorders. By combining advanced techniques from structural biology to integrative physiology, the lab aims to contribute to the development of new pain therapies and improve patients' quality of life.

Dr. Emily Lauren Goldberg's lab studies how aging affects immune cells in fat tissue and how these changes contribute to inflammation and related diseases in older adults. By understanding the mechanisms behind immune dysfunction, the lab aims to improve health outcomes and develop strategies to protect against age-related conditions. This research is particularly important as it focuses on the intersection of aging, inflammation, and metabolic health.

Dr. Lily Jan's lab at UCSF focuses on understanding a family of proteins known as TMEM16, which play crucial roles in how neurons communicate and regulate various physiological functions. Through techniques such as cryo-electron microscopy and site-directed mutagenesis, the lab investigates how these proteins function as ion channels and lipid scramblases, contributing to exciting areas like neurodegeneration and pain sensitivity. This research is essential for uncovering the mechanisms behind human diseases linked to these proteins.