Dr. Sean Knecht's lab at Penn State focuses on developing innovative treatment strategies for cardiovascular diseases, particularly those associated with bacterial infections like infective endocarditis. The research primarily involves the use of a unique physical-plasma catheter designed to combat stubborn bacterial biofilms, which often resist standard antibiotic treatments. By optimizing this technology, the lab aims to improve patient outcomes and reduce the need for invasive surgeries.

The Makova Lab focuses on studying how unique DNA structures, which differ from the standard double helix, influence genome evolution and function. By examining these non-canonical DNA forms, the lab aims to uncover their roles in genetic variation, disease, and genome architecture. The research combines experimental techniques with computational analysis to deepen our understanding of human genetics and contribute to advancements in personalized medicine.

Dr. Craig M Meyers' lab at Pennsylvania State University Hershey Medical Center studies the effects of HIV treatment on the progression of HPV-related oral cancers. They focus on understanding how highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) impacts cancer development and prognosis in patients with HIV and HPV co-infections. The lab uses innovative in vitro models to explore the mechanisms underlying these cancers and aims to identify potential therapeutic targets.

Dr. Shengyu Yang's lab at Pennsylvania State University focuses on understanding how mitochondrial calcium signals affect the spread and advancement of pancreatic cancer, specifically pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). They explore the molecular mechanisms behind cell migration and invasion in cancer, aiming to identify potential therapeutic targets to better treat this aggressive cancer. The research may lead to innovative approaches that could help prevent the recurrence of metastatic pancreatic cancer.

Dr. Nelli Mnatsakanyan's research lab focuses on understanding the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease. They are particularly interested in a specific channel in mitochondria that may contribute to cell death. By using advanced imaging techniques, the lab aims to uncover the structural details of this channel and explore how blocking it could help protect neurons from damage caused by Alzheimer's. Their work could lead to new treatments for this devastating disease.

Dr. Anirban Paul's research lab focuses on understanding how different types of brain cells are affected by Alzheimer's disease (AD) and aging. The lab explores how certain cell types might be more vulnerable to AD and why others seem to resist damage. By studying these cell types in mouse models, they aim to uncover the molecular and genetic factors that contribute to the risk of developing AD, potentially leading to new insights for treatment and prevention.

Dr. Tae-Hee Lee's lab at Penn State focuses on understanding how DNA and histones interact within the nucleosome, which is key to gene regulation. The lab employs cutting-edge single-molecule fluorescence techniques to study these interactions and how chromatin modifications influence gene accessibility. Their work has implications for understanding developmental issues and diseases, especially cancers.

Anne Olmstead's lab at Penn State focuses on understanding how individuals with communication disorders, particularly those with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), can improve their verbal communication. The lab studies both structured and natural conversations to learn how speech patterns change as ALS progresses and how interventions can better support those affected. By involving caregivers in research, the lab aims to enhance communication strategies that improve quality of life for people with degenerative conditions.

Dr. Mauricio Henriques Pontes leads a research lab focused on understanding the unique interactions between a bacterium called Sodalis glossinidius and tsetse flies, which are known vectors for serious diseases like sleeping sickness. The lab aims to uncover how this bacterium survives and replicates within the fly, potentially paving the way for innovative strategies to control trypanosomiasis. By employing advanced genetic techniques, the lab explores how modifying this bacterium could help in producing flies that resist trypanosome infections.

Dr. Justin Pritchard's lab at Penn State focuses on studying tyrosine kinases, which are important proteins involved in many human diseases, including cancer. By combining experimental and computational techniques, the lab aims to understand how genetic variations in these proteins influence their function and responses to drugs. This research could lead to better predictions of disease risk and treatment outcomes for patients.

Dr. Amir Sheikhi's lab focuses on innovative strategies for improving reconstructive surgery outcomes through the development of advanced hydrogel scaffolds and microsurgical techniques. By creating controlled environments that promote blood vessel formation, the lab aims to enhance tissue regeneration and function. Their work has significant implications for regenerative medicine and public health, particularly in the restoration of soft tissue.

Dr. Yuval Silberman's lab at Penn State Hershey focuses on understanding the complex relationship between the brain and body in the context of alcohol use disorder (AUD). The lab explores how disruptions in vagus nerve signaling can influence alcohol consumption behaviors through specific brain circuits, especially the hypothalamus. By investigating these mechanisms, the lab aims to develop new treatment strategies for AUD, which continues to be a major public health concern.

Dr. Julianna Simon's lab focuses on improving treatments for tendon injuries, which affect millions of people each year. They are developing an innovative therapy using focused ultrasound technology to promote healing in tendons, especially for chronic conditions where current treatments are often ineffective. The lab combines creative experimental approaches with advanced imaging techniques to provide personalized treatment plans that could improve patient outcomes significantly.

Dr. Stephanie T Lanza's research lab focuses on understanding the complex patterns of substance use among young adult college students, particularly examining how daily behaviors and psychological factors intersect. The lab uses advanced statistical methods to analyze intensive longitudinal data collected via smartphones, allowing for insights into the dynamics of substance use and aiding in the development of targeted interventions. By revealing risk factors and developing best practices for data analysis, the lab aims to enhance prevention strategies around substance use on college campuses.

Dr. Moriah Szpara's lab at Penn State University focuses on understanding how genetic variation in the herpes simplex virus (HSV) affects disease outcomes in newborns. They investigate why some infants experience severe complications, like infection in the brain or other organs, while others have milder forms. The lab combines genomic analysis of viral samples with laboratory experiments and animal models to uncover links between viral genetics and clinical results, aiming to improve prevention and treatment strategies for high-risk newborns.

Dr. Santhosh Girirajan's lab at Penn State University focuses on understanding how genetic variations lead to different developmental and behavioral outcomes in individuals with complex disorders. The research primarily investigates the effects of a specific chromosome deletion (16p12.1) and how it interacts with other genetic factors to influence susceptibility to conditions such as neurodevelopmental disorders. By studying these interactions in model organisms, the lab aims to shed light on the mechanisms behind phenotypic variability and improve strategies for diagnosis and treatment.

Dr. Emily Ansell's lab focuses on understanding how the simultaneous use of alcohol and cannabis affects behavior and brain function. Their research explores the neurological and hormonal responses to stress in individuals who frequently use both substances compared to those who use only one or neither. The goal is to better understand the risks associated with co-use and to inform prevention and treatment strategies.

Dr. Krista M. Wilkinson's lab focuses on understanding the unique challenges faced by individuals with Down syndrome, particularly related to speech production and swallowing. The research examines how specific physical and cognitive characteristics of Down syndrome affect these processes, aiming to develop more effective interventions tailored to the needs of this population. By integrating insights across various fields, the lab seeks to enhance communication and life quality for individuals with Down syndrome.

Dr. George Lucian Moldovan's lab studies how cells manage DNA damage during replication. They focus on understanding the mechanisms that prevent and repair damage to DNA, which is crucial for maintaining genomic stability and preventing diseases like cancer. By exploring the roles of specific proteins in repairing DNA, the lab aims to uncover insights that could improve cancer therapies and enhance our understanding of how cells respond to DNA damage.

Dr. Yongsoo Kim's lab at Penn State University focuses on understanding how specific brain regions, particularly the ventral claustrum-dorsal endopiriform nucleus, influence social behavior and emotional processing. The lab investigates these mechanisms using advanced techniques in neuroscience and genetics, aiming to unravel the underlying biological pathways involved in neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders. By studying the impact of certain genes on brain connectivity and functioning, the research seeks to inform future therapeutic strategies for various neurological conditions.