Dr. Balveen Kaur's lab at Augusta University focuses on developing innovative therapies to treat glioblastoma (GBM), a deadly brain cancer. The lab's primary research investigates the use of oncolytic herpes simplex virus (oHSV) in combination with strategies to block NOTCH signaling, which can enhance the virus's effectiveness against tumors while ensuring safety for brain function. By understanding how these pathways interact, the lab aims to improve treatment options for patients suffering from this challenging disease.

Dr. Yan Cui's research lab focuses on understanding how a specific pathway in the immune system affects head and neck cancers, particularly those that arise due to tobacco and alcohol use. The team studies how certain molecules in the tumor environment, like CD73 and its receptor A2BR, help tumors evade the immune system, making them harder to treat. By exploring these interactions, the lab aims to develop new therapies that can enhance immune responses against these aggressive cancers.

Dr. Stephen Tymanskyj's lab at Augusta University focuses on understanding how intracellular transport works in neurons, especially in relation to neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases. The team is developing a novel optogenetic method that uses artificially created cargo to study motor proteins and their role in transporting materials within neurons. This research aims to uncover the fundamental mechanisms of transport processes and how they are affected by genetic mutations linked to disorders like autism and Parkinson's disease.

Dr. Tohru Fukai's lab at Augusta University studies how the metabolism of endothelial cells (the cells lining blood vessels) affects cardiovascular diseases like atherosclerosis and diabetes. By examining the balance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS), the lab seeks to uncover new ways to treat these diseases. The research combines advanced techniques like genetics and metabolism studies to better understand the mechanisms behind vascular health.

Dr. Qin Wang's lab at Augusta University studies the relationship between brain cell signaling and neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer's disease. They focus on how certain genes and signaling pathways that activate brain cells like astrocytes influence disease progression. Additionally, they explore how specific proteins regulate neuron activity, impacting emotional responses and behavior. Their work aims to uncover potential new therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's and understanding stress-related mental health issues.