Dr. Isidore Rigoutsos' lab at Thomas Jefferson University focuses on understanding small RNA molecules, particularly variations of microRNAs, and fragments from tRNAs and rRNAs. They aim to develop specialized tools and databases that will help researchers accurately analyze and mine these RNA types from sequencing data. The lab’s work is crucial for improving our understanding of how these molecules regulate gene expression in different contexts, such as in human health and disease, particularly by investigating their roles in breast cancer metastasis.

Dr. Ankita Srivastava's lab focuses on understanding how alcohol consumption affects the liver's ability to regenerate and recover from damage. By studying both male and female rats, the lab investigates the differences in liver responses to ethanol and identifies the mechanisms that lead to disruption in repair processes. The ultimate goal is to translate these findings to human conditions related to alcohol-related liver disease.

Dr. Steven B. McMahon's lab at Thomas Jefferson University studies how exposure to hexavalent chromium, a known carcinogen, leads to lung cancer. His research focuses on a specific RNA modification enzyme, METTL3, to understand its role in promoting tumor growth and the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis) in lung tissues. By uncovering the mechanisms behind these processes, the lab aims to identify potential biomarkers for cancer detection and prevention in individuals exposed to chromium.

Luis J Sigal's lab focuses on understanding how modified mRNA vaccines can stimulate the immune system to produce memory CD8 T-cells that protect against viral infections. Their research particularly investigates the mechanisms behind these vaccines encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles and their potential to fight respiratory viruses like SARS-CoV-2 as well as viruses that cause systemic infections, such as monkeypox. This work aims to enhance vaccine designs for better protection in humans and may lead to breakthroughs in both infectious disease and cancer therapies.

Dr. Botond Z Igyarto's lab at Thomas Jefferson University focuses on understanding how mRNA-LNP vaccines impact our immune system, particularly through mechanisms known as trained immunity. The research investigates not only the immediate immune responses to these vaccines but also their potential long-term effects across generations. By using advanced techniques such as single-cell analysis and mouse models, the lab aims to shed light on how vaccination may alter genetic factors in immune cells and influence our ability to respond to infections.

Dr. Jun He's lab at Thomas Jefferson University focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) and its resistance to treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. The lab investigates the role of a specific microRNA, miR-152, and how its suppression leads to the upregulation of pathways that promote tumor growth and resistance to therapy. The ultimate goal of this research is to identify new therapeutic targets to improve treatment outcomes for patients with TNBC.

Dr. Matthias Johannes Schnell's lab focuses on developing a new vaccine against the Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV), a dangerous pathogen with high fatality rates. The lab uses innovative vaccine platforms based on inactivated rabies and vesicular stomatitis viruses to generate protective immunity against CCHFV. They work on understanding how these vaccines work and aim to create a safer method for vaccine testing using animal models, ultimately contributing to public health safety.

Dr. James Schwaber's lab focuses on understanding how certain neurons in the brainstem help control the vagus nerve, which plays a crucial role in heart health. By studying the molecular mechanisms within these neurons, the lab aims to find ways to enhance vagal activity to protect against heart diseases. This research has the potential to lead to new treatments for conditions related to low cardiac vagal outflow.

Dr. Scott A. Waldman's lab focuses on understanding and targeting visceral pain, particularly related to disorders like irritable bowel syndrome and chronic constipation. They study the role of specific intestinal cells and hormones in regulating nerve activity that contributes to pain, with the aim of developing new, more effective pain relief therapies without major side effects. By investigating a novel signaling pathway in the gut, they hope to translate their findings into innovative treatments for patients suffering from chronic visceral pain.