Dr. Christopher A Ahern's lab studies how voltage-gated ion channels impact heart function and disease. They use innovative chemical and genetic tools to investigate how these channels operate at the molecular level, particularly in relation to arrhythmias and sodium channelopathies. Their research aims to improve understanding of cardiovascular diseases and develop new therapeutic strategies.

Dr. Nathaniel D.M. Jenkins' lab at the University of Iowa focuses on understanding how adverse childhood experiences, like abuse or neglect, can lead to cardiovascular disease in adulthood through mechanisms such as poor sleep. The research aims to explore the connection between sleep quality and vascular function, particularly in young adults who have faced these traumatic experiences. By improving sleep, the lab hopes to find ways to enhance heart health for those affected by these early life stressors.

Dr. W Scott Moye-Rowley's lab at the University of Iowa explores how certain genetic changes in the fungus Aspergillus fumigatus help it resist antifungal drugs. They specifically study a gene called cyp51A, which is critical for drug resistance, and aim to understand how mutations in this gene influence its expression and the fungus's ability to survive drug treatment. The research has significant implications for improving treatment strategies against serious fungal infections.

Dr. Anna Stanhewicz's lab at the University of Iowa studies how gestational diabetes affects women's health, specifically focusing on microvascular function. After pregnancy, women with a history of gestational diabetes are at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. The lab investigates the role of oxidative stress and how it impacts blood vessel function, aiming to find effective treatment strategies to improve health outcomes for these women.

Dr. Kara Whitaker's research lab focuses on how maternal behaviors during pregnancy, such as physical activity and sedentary behavior, influence the health of offspring in their early years. By studying the effects of these behaviors, her team aims to find ways to prevent childhood obesity and cardiovascular diseases that can start before birth. This work seeks to provide insights into how we can improve health outcomes for future generations through effective maternal health interventions.

Dr. Eric B. Taylor's lab at the University of Iowa focuses on understanding how the mitochondrial dicarboxylate carrier influences liver metabolism, particularly gluconeogenesis, in normal physiology and during type 2 diabetes. The research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind altered metabolic processes in diabetes, which could lead to better treatments for the disease. By employing advanced genetic and metabolic tracing techniques, the lab seeks to connect mitochondrial function with liver health and disease.

Dr. Rainbo Hultman's lab at the University of Iowa focuses on understanding how chronic stress affects the brain and behavior in mice. They investigate the brain's electrical networks and molecular changes that contribute to stress vulnerability and resilience, aiming to identify preventative strategies for mental health issues like depression. The lab also studies parental brain adaptations in response to the demands of caring for offspring, providing insights into maternal behavior and potential risks like postpartum depression.

Dr. Michael Anderson's lab focuses on understanding the genetic factors that contribute to glaucoma, a serious eye disease that can lead to permanent blindness. The lab investigates specific genetic variations linked to glaucoma risk and how they affect the health of retinal cells. By utilizing human tissues and mouse models, the research aims to unravel the mechanisms behind glaucoma to develop new treatments that go beyond lowering eye pressure.