Dr. James E. Bear's lab at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill focuses on understanding how cells move by studying the actin cytoskeleton. The research aims to uncover how cells react to their environments and direct their movement, which is important for processes like wound healing and cancer metastasis. By using innovative techniques like conditional knockout mouse models and optogenetics, the lab seeks to unravel the complexities of cell motility at a molecular level.

Dr. Eva S. Anton's lab at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill focuses on understanding how primary cilia, tiny antenna-like structures on neurons, influence brain function and development. They study how disruptions in primary cilia signaling can lead to neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and epilepsy. The lab employs advanced techniques to unravel the signaling pathways and the potential therapeutic roles of primary cilia in repairing neural circuit malfunctions.

Dr. Sarah Cohen's lab at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill investigates the role of a specific protein, apolipoprotein E (APOE), in brain cells related to Alzheimer's disease. The lab focuses on how APOE affects fat metabolism in brain cells called astrocytes and microglia, and how this relates to the risk of developing Alzheimer's, particularly for individuals carrying the APOE4 gene. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover potential new targets for treating Alzheimer's disease.

Dr. Lori L O'Brien's lab at UNC Chapel Hill focuses on understanding how nerve and blood vessel interactions influence the development of the kidneys. Their research investigates the roles that nerves play in kidney organogenesis and how disruptions in the neuro-vascular relationships can impact nephron formation. The lab utilizes advanced imaging and genetic techniques to explore these complex relationships, with the goal of improving regenerative strategies for kidney tissue.

Dr. Benjamin Philpot's lab at the University of North Carolina focuses on developing innovative treatments for retinal degeneration and Angelman syndrome. They are utilizing advanced models, such as mouse models and retinal organoids, to explore gene therapies and small molecule drugs aimed at boosting visual function and reversing neurodevelopmental disorders. The lab's research aims to transform the lives of patients suffering from these challenging conditions.

Dr. Scott Parnell's lab at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill focuses on understanding the effects of ethanol (alcohol) exposure during pregnancy, particularly its role in causing developmental disorders. The research explores how prenatal alcohol impacts cellular processes, genetics, and signaling pathways, which can lead to Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). By using advanced models like mice and zebrafish, the lab aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind these disorders and identify genetic factors that influence individual susceptibility.

Dr. Jessica E Thaxton's lab focuses on understanding how solid tumors impact the metabolism of immune cells, particularly CD8+ T cells. By studying how tumors affect lipid metabolism in these immune cells, her research aims to identify ways to enhance their function in cancer therapy. The lab's ultimate goal is to develop molecular strategies that could improve the effectiveness of immunotherapies in treating various cancers.

Dr. Mark J. Zylka's research lab focuses on understanding the link between environmental chemicals and neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism. The lab employs advanced genome editing techniques to explore both the environmental and genetic factors that contribute to these conditions. They aim to identify harmful chemicals and develop innovative gene therapies to treat disorders like Angelman syndrome.

Dr. Michael C. Bressan's lab at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill focuses on understanding the cardiac pacemaker cells, which are crucial for initiating heartbeats. The lab investigates how these cells interact with their environment and support cells to maintain their function. By exploring the mechanical and chemical factors that impact pacemaker cell health, the research aims to develop new therapies for heart conditions and improve artificial pacemaker technologies.

Dr. Adam Hantman's lab at UNC Chapel Hill focuses on understanding how changes in a specific gene called UBE3A affect movement control in disorders like Angelman syndrome and Dup15q syndrome. The lab uses mouse models to explore how UBE3A misexpression alters brain circuit dynamics and motor skills. Ultimately, the research aims to develop new gene therapy approaches to improve motor function in affected individuals.