Dr. Alexander Staruschenko's lab at the University of South Florida focuses on understanding sex-related differences in diabetic kidney disease (DKD). They study the mechanisms behind how diabetes affects kidney function differently in men and women, using a special rat model of type 2 diabetic nephropathy. Their goal is to identify molecular pathways that could lead to more effective, tailored treatments for diabetic kidney disease.

Dr. Thomas Edward Taylor-Clark's lab at the University of South Florida studies how certain nerves in the esophagus respond to stretching. These nerves help control swallowing and esophageal movement. By understanding how these nerves work, the lab aims to find ways to treat conditions like dysphagia and heartburn that affect many people.

Dr. Lianchun Wang's research lab at the University of South Florida focuses on understanding the role of heparan sulfate proteoglycans in Alzheimer's disease. They investigate how these molecules affect the clearance of amyloid beta from the brain, which is crucial in preventing the progression of this disease. By studying both human samples and mouse models, the lab aims to uncover new mechanisms that could potentially lead to effective therapies for Alzheimer's.

Dr. Ruisheng Liu's lab focuses on kidney health, specifically how to protect and improve the function of transplanted kidneys and understand the transition from acute kidney injury (AKI) to chronic kidney disease (CKD). They use innovative techniques to assess and enhance kidney function, which is crucial since organ shortages are a major issue for patients needing transplants. Their research aims to develop new strategies to improve kidney survival and function during and after transplantation, while also investigating the regulatory mechanisms behind kidney response to injury.

Dr. Joshua Paul Scallan's lab focuses on understanding congenital lymphedema, a genetic condition that causes swelling and infections due to lymphatic vessel dysfunction. Using mouse models, the lab investigates how a specific gene, VEGFR3, affects the structure and function of lymphatic capillaries. This research aims to reveal underlying mechanisms of this disease, potentially leading to new treatments for patients suffering from lymphedema.

Dr. Hana Totary-Jain's lab focuses on understanding how the placenta protects against viral infections during pregnancy. The research centers on specialized cells in the placenta called trophoblasts, which release proteins to defend against viruses. By studying human and rodent placental models, the lab aims to reveal how these mechanisms work, leading to better strategies for preventing congenital disorders linked to infections.

Dr. Yao Yao's lab focuses on how a specific protein called pericytic laminin affects brain health, particularly in relation to Alzheimer's disease. They study its role in maintaining the blood-brain barrier, regulating blood flow in the brain, and preventing nerve damage. The goal is to uncover new ways to treat age-related brain disorders by understanding these mechanisms better.

Dr. Sarah Y Yuan's lab focuses on understanding how vascular barriers function during inflammation and injury, which can lead to various cardiovascular diseases. The lab investigates the mechanisms behind vascular permeability, especially how certain blood components leak into surrounding tissues during diseases like sepsis and stroke. They aim to discover new diagnostic and therapeutic targets to help develop effective treatments for these conditions.

Dr. Ying Yang's lab at the University of South Florida focuses on understanding Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC), a chronic disease caused by mutations in TSC1 or TSC2 genes that lead to serious complications like fluid accumulation in the chest. The lab investigates the role of lymphatic vessels in TSC, particularly how the loss of TSC signaling affects lymphatic valve function and contributes to chylothorax. Through their research, they aim to identify new pathways and potential therapeutic targets for managing TSC.