Dr. Chu Chen's lab focuses on understanding and developing new therapies for Alzheimer's disease (AD), which significantly impacts the aging population. The lab's research centers on astrocytes, a specific type of brain cell, and how silencing a key enzyme can mitigate AD-related symptoms. By targeting the endocannabinoid system, particularly the metabolism of 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), the lab aims to create effective gene therapies that could prevent or slow down cognitive decline in AD.

Dr. Lynette C. Daws' lab focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind how psychostimulants like amphetamine and methamphetamine affect the brain, particularly through a transporter protein known as OCT3. The lab is investigating why current treatments for stimulant addiction have not been successful, aiming to identify new approaches for effective medications. By using advanced mouse models, the research seeks to explore how OCT3 contributes to dopamine release and drug-related behaviors, potentially leading to novel therapies for substance use disorders.