Dr. Anne Watson Draelos’s lab focuses on understanding the factors that contribute to cognitive resilience in Alzheimer’s disease through innovative machine learning techniques. By analyzing various types of biological and environmental data, the lab aims to uncover dynamics that influence how individuals age cognitively and how this knowledge can lead to new therapeutic strategies. The research integrates complex models to not only identify key factors but also test interventions based on predicted results, making the process of validating hypotheses faster and more efficient.

Dr. Ada Eban-Rothschild's lab at the University of Michigan explores how dopamine signaling in the brain's reward system affects memory consolidation during sleep. The research focuses on the role of specific neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and their interactions with other brain regions, particularly during sleep when memories are formed. By studying these processes in mice, the lab aims to illuminate how our experiences can transform into long-lasting memories and may lead to new treatments for memory-related disorders.

Dr. Sriram Venneti's lab focuses on understanding childhood ependymomas, a type of brain tumor that often leads to poor outcomes due to limited treatment options. The research investigates how epigenetic factors and changes in cellular metabolism drive these tumors, aiming to develop effective therapies that target both aspects simultaneously. By exploring the mechanisms behind tumor growth and behavior, the lab seeks to improve prognoses for affected children.

Dr. Tomasz Cierpicki's lab at the University of Michigan focuses on understanding the role of epigenetic changes in cancer, specifically breast cancer and leukemia. The laboratory investigates small molecule inhibitors that target specific proteins involved in gene regulation, aiming to develop new treatments that can inhibit cancer cell growth and promote differentiation of stem cells. Researchers will gain insights into molecular biology and drug development processes relevant for cancer therapy.

Dr. Yu Wang's lab at the University of Michigan focuses on understanding epilepsy associated with mTORopathies, particularly in how these conditions develop and progress. They use advanced techniques to explore the cellular and molecular changes in the brain that lead to epilepsy, especially in children with drug-resistant forms of the disease. The lab combines animal models with human tissue studies to investigate potential therapeutic strategies and improve seizure outcomes.

Dr. Thomas Fraser Crossley's research lab at the University of Michigan focuses on understanding family dynamics and how they influence child development and wellbeing over generations. Using data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics (PSID), the lab investigates areas such as fertility, contraception, and education in the context of societal changes including impacts from the Covid-19 pandemic. The goal is to provide valuable insights into the complexities of familial relationships and social policies that affect families in the U.S.

Dr. Xudong Fan's lab focuses on developing innovative diagnostic devices that analyze biological markers from breath and skin odors to detect and monitor various diseases. By utilizing micro-gas chromatography and machine learning, the lab aims to create portable devices for point-of-care use, enhancing diagnosis and patient monitoring for conditions like acute respiratory distress syndrome and skin diseases. Their work combines biomedical engineering, data science, and clinical expertise to significantly improve healthcare outcomes.

Dr. Carrie Ferrario's research lab at the University of Michigan focuses on understanding how food-related cues influence cravings and eating behavior, particularly in the context of obesity. The lab studies the brain's reward systems and how junk food can alter neural circuits, contributing to an enhanced craving for food in obese individuals. By using preclinical models, the lab aims to uncover the biological mechanisms that drive obesity and develop targeted prevention and treatment strategies.

Dr. Simon Patrick Hogan's lab focuses on understanding food allergies, particularly in children, and aims to find new ways to treat them. The lab studies how certain immune cells in the gastrointestinal tract interact with food antigens and how this may lead to allergic reactions. By investigating the roles of specific signaling pathways and cell types, the team seeks to uncover new therapeutic targets that could improve treatments for food allergies.

Dr. Jianping Fu's lab at the University of Michigan focuses on developing innovative models to better understand human brain and spinal cord development. Using cutting-edge microfluidics technology, the lab aims to create a human neural tube model that accurately replicates the architecture and patterning of the central nervous system. This research could help decode the complexities of neurodevelopmental disorders and aid in the advancement of regenerative therapies.

Dr. Bing Ye's lab focuses on understanding the neurological features associated with Down syndrome, particularly the roles of GABAergic systems in conditions like cognitive deficits and epilepsy. The research investigates molecular regulators that may contribute to these comorbidities, using mouse models to explore the impact of specific genes, such as DSCAM. This work aims to identify therapeutic targets that could improve outcomes for individuals with Down syndrome and similar neurological disorders.

Dr. Ashley Nicole Gearhardt's lab studies the powerful effects of ultra-processed foods on human behavior, particularly how reducing these foods can lead to withdrawal symptoms similar to those seen in substance use disorders. The research aims to understand the psychological and physiological response to cutting down on ultra-processed foods and how these reactions can affect dietary choices. By exploring these connections, the lab seeks to inform better strategies for dietary interventions and public health policies.

Dr. Daniel R Wahl's lab at the University of Michigan focuses on understanding and targeting the unique metabolism of glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. The lab aims to develop innovative methods to measure metabolic activity in tumors, which can help doctors identify the best treatment strategies. By exploring how glioblastoma cells adapt their metabolism to resist treatments like radiation, the lab hopes to improve patient outcomes and discover new therapeutic approaches.

Dr. Carina Gronlund's lab at the University of Michigan focuses on understanding how improvements in home environments can enhance the health and well-being of older adults. They study the effects of weatherization programs—modifications to homes that increase energy efficiency—on cognitive function, sleep quality, and financial stress. By investigating these relationships, the lab aims to inform policies that could reduce health disparities and improve the quality of life for vulnerable populations.

Dr. Karl Grosh's lab at the University of Michigan focuses on developing advanced implantable sensors that can improve hearing prosthetics like cochlear implants and hearing aids. The research involves creating tiny accelerometers that can accurately detect sound by tracking the movement of bones in the middle ear. This work aims to make hearing devices smaller, more effective, and more comfortable for users, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for those with hearing loss.

Dr. Eric C. Martens' lab at the University of Michigan focuses on how dietary factors, particularly fiber and soy protein, influence gut health and the prevention of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). They utilize mouse models to investigate the interactions between the gut microbiome and the mucus barrier, aiming to uncover mechanisms that could mitigate the risk of IBD. Their research could ultimately lead to better dietary recommendations and treatments for gut-related diseases.

Dr. Kira S. Birditt's lab focuses on understanding the social factors that influence hearing aid use among older adults with hearing loss. The lab’s research examines how social networks and daily interactions affect whether individuals wear their hearing aids and how these devices impact their social relationships over time. Her work aims to provide insights that can improve hearing aid usage and enhance the quality of life for older adults.

Timothy L. Hall's lab at the University of Michigan focuses on improving a cutting-edge method known as histotripsy, which uses high-intensity ultrasound to non-invasively destroy tissue, such as tumors in the liver. The lab aims to enhance this technique by developing advanced imaging and correction methods that ensure the treatment can be safely applied to a broader patient population. Their research could pave the way for more effective and precise medical treatments without the need for invasive surgery.

Michael Cianfrocco's lab at the University of Michigan focuses on understanding how the HIV-1 virus navigates within host cells. Their research aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that allow HIV-1 to exploit cellular transport systems, particularly the dynein motor proteins, to reach the nucleus of the infected cell. By investigating these interactions, the lab hopes to identify new therapeutic targets to prevent HIV-1 infection and improve treatment options.

Dr. Sally A. Camper's lab focuses on understanding congenital birth defects associated with the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. By studying genetically altered mice, the lab aims to identify the genetic defects that lead to conditions like congenital hypopituitarism, which can result in severe health problems. The lab employs advanced techniques to analyze how these defects affect brain development and hormone regulation, which ultimately helps in diagnosing and treating similar human conditions.