Dr. Jesse C. Stewart's lab focuses on understanding the relationship between sleep disturbances, particularly insomnia, and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Their research seeks to determine how improving sleep can reduce risks associated with CVD through the SHADES intervention, which uses cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I). By exploring biological mechanisms underpinning the link between sleep and heart health, the lab aims to contribute to effective prevention strategies for CVD in high-risk populations.

Dr. Kathy L Newell's research lab at Indiana University Indianapolis focuses on understanding the role of TDP-43 protein in various neurodegenerative diseases, such as Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration (FTLD) and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). By investigating the molecular changes and mislocalization of TDP-43, her team aims to uncover the mechanisms behind different clinical presentations of these diseases. Their innovative approach combines advanced imaging and molecular techniques to study the structure and modifications of TDP-43, which could lead to new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

Dr. Paul Territo's research lab at Indiana University focuses on understanding neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. The lab studies P2X7 receptors, which play a significant role in communication between brain cells and are involved in the inflammatory processes that lead to neurodegeneration. By investigating these mechanisms using advanced mouse models, the lab aims to develop potential treatments to prevent cognitive decline associated with these diseases.

Dr. William J. Sullivan's lab focuses on understanding how the Toxoplasma gondii parasite persists in the brain as a latent form, which can reactivate in immunocompromised individuals. The lab is investigating the role of translation initiation factors in the formation of these latent cysts, aiming to discover new therapeutic targets that could help prevent serious infections caused by this parasite. By using innovative cell models and advanced techniques, the lab seeks to uncover the complex mechanisms involved in protein synthesis during the cyst formation process.

Dr. Steven S Welc's lab focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind cardiac disease in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). They investigate how fibroblasts, which are cells that help maintain the structure of heart tissue, produce specific signals that can worsen heart problems associated with DMD. The goal is to find new ways to target these signals for potential therapies to improve heart function and overall health for affected individuals.

Dr. Randy Brutkiewicz's lab at Indiana University Indianapolis focuses on understanding how the immune system, specifically a type of immune cell called MAIT cells, contributes to Alzheimer's disease (AD) and its associated neuroinflammation. By investigating the mechanisms by which these cells and their interactions with brain cells like microglia and astrocytes impact AD pathology, the lab aims to uncover new therapeutic targets for this devastating disease.

Dr. Quyen Quoc Hoang's lab at Indiana University Indianapolis focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms of LRRK2, a protein linked to various diseases including Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. By exploring how mutations affect LRRK2's structure and function, the lab aims to uncover insights that could lead to new treatments. Students in this lab will work with cutting-edge techniques to study protein dynamics and activity.

Dr. Bruce T. Lamb's lab focuses on understanding how genetic variations in the PLCG2 gene influence the biology of microglia, the immune cells of the brain, and contribute to Alzheimer's disease. By studying these variants in mouse models, the lab aims to elucidate their effects on disease progression and identify potential therapeutic targets. This research is crucial for developing new treatments for Alzheimer's disease.

The lab led by Dr. Randall J. Roper focuses on understanding the genetic factors that influence Down syndrome (DS) traits. They specifically look at how different genes, including those not directly associated with DS, can affect physical and cognitive characteristics in individuals with Down syndrome. Their work involves creating advanced mouse models to better represent the variety of symptoms seen in humans with trisomy 21, particularly investigating how factors like sex and skeletal development might modify these traits.

Dr. Ruben Vidal's lab investigates brain disorders related to tau proteins, particularly tauopathies, which are associated with neurodegeneration. Using advanced imaging techniques, the team studies the structures of tau aggregates and how they influence diseases like progressive supranuclear palsy and new forms of tauopathies. Their research aims to improve understanding of these conditions, which can lead to better diagnoses and treatments.

Dr. Stephanie M. Ware leads a research lab focused on understanding the genetic basis of congenital heart disease and undiagnosed rare diseases. The lab explores how specific genes, like SHROOM3, contribute to heart malformations and uses a range of genomic techniques to identify patients at risk for rare genetic conditions. Their work aims to improve healthcare access and diagnostic methods for underserved populations in Indiana.

Dr. Michael Aaron Weiss's lab focuses on creating and studying new types of insulin that can help treat Type 1 diabetes more effectively and safely. They are particularly interested in how changes in the structure of insulin can improve its function and reduce side effects, such as low blood sugar. The lab uses advanced techniques like cryo-electron microscopy to analyze insulin's behavior and develop analogs that respond to glucose levels in the body, potentially transforming diabetes management.

Dr. Kenneth White's lab focuses on understanding how aging affects muscle and bone health. They are particularly interested in the biochemical pathways that connect muscles, bones, and kidneys, and how these pathways can be influenced by factors like exercise. By investigating the role of specific molecules, such as L-BAIBA and FGF23, the lab aims to identify new therapeutic strategies to improve the quality of life for aging individuals who face issues like sarcopenia and osteoporosis.

Dr. Yu-Chien Wu's lab at Indiana University Indianapolis focuses on understanding neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's by using advanced MRI techniques. The lab explores how these imaging methods can detect changes in brain synapses associated with memory decline. By studying animal models and applying findings to human health, they aim to improve early diagnosis and treatment options for Alzheimer's disease.