Dr. Sharona E. Gordon's lab at the University of Washington focuses on understanding how nerve growth factor (NGF) influences the behavior of TRPV1 ion channels, which are important for pain sensation. By employing innovative chemical biology techniques, the lab studies how NGF regulates the movement of TRPV1 channels to the cell membrane in response to inflammation. This research could identify new targets for pain management therapies.

Dr. Alexander Greninger's lab focuses on enhancing the public sharing of viral genomic data, which is essential for developing vaccines and therapies. They are working on an automated system to improve the quality and speed of viral genome annotations, making it easier for researchers to share data related to viruses that significantly impact public health. Their goal is to prepare for future pandemics by ensuring that viral sequencing data is accurately validated and readily accessible.

Dr. Rodney Ho's lab at the University of Washington focuses on developing new antiviral treatments for hepatitis B virus (HBV) that can last longer and reduce the need for daily medication. They aim to create innovative injection-based therapies that will help patients manage their condition more effectively and avoid complications like liver cancer. The lab collaborates with other experts to translate these ideas into real-world solutions that can significantly improve patient care.

Dr. Megan A. O'Connor's lab at the University of Washington focuses on understanding how HIV infection impacts the severity of COVID-19 in immunocompromised individuals. The research investigates the interactions between SARS-CoV-2 and the immune system during HIV infection, with a special emphasis on the microbiome's role in disease progression. By using nonhuman primate models, the lab aims to uncover the mechanisms that lead to severe disease outcomes in patients with both infections, potentially guiding therapeutic strategies.

Dr. James P. Hughes leads a research lab focused on improving statistical methods for HIV/AIDS research. His work aims to enhance clinical trials and laboratory studies related to HIV, ultimately contributing to better prevention and treatment strategies. The lab's statistical innovations are also applicable to other communicable diseases, making it a significant contributor to public health efforts.

Dr. Marshall Horwitz's lab focuses on understanding congenital neutropenia, a condition where the body has dangerously low levels of a type of white blood cell called neutrophils, increasing the risk of infections. They explore genetic mutations that impact neutrophil development and function, using innovative human stem cell models to study how these mutations disrupt normal blood cell formation. The goal is to uncover the mechanisms behind this and potentially find new ways to treat these disorders.

Dr. Jeansok John Kim's lab at the University of Washington focuses on understanding how animals, particularly rodents, process fear and make decisions in the face of threats. The research investigates the brain pathways that govern fear responses, especially in realistic environments where dangers can be ambiguous. By studying these neural dynamics, the lab aims to inform better treatments for trauma-related disorders in humans.

Dr. Paul E. Kinahan's lab at the University of Washington focuses on improving cancer detection and treatment through advanced imaging technologies. They work on optimizing positron emission tomography (PET) imaging to better identify and characterize early-stage cancers, particularly in breast cancer therapy. The lab employs cutting-edge techniques, including machine learning and advanced imaging algorithms, to enhance diagnostic accuracy and potentially save lives by allowing earlier interventions.

Dr. Natalia Kleinhans's lab investigates how cannabis exposure during pregnancy affects infant brain development and behavior. By using advanced imaging techniques and neurobehavioral assessments, the lab aims to identify risks associated with prenatal cannabis use, especially given the increasing legalization and changing public perceptions of cannabis. Their research focuses on understanding neurodevelopmental changes in infants whose mothers used cannabis during pregnancy, aiming to inform public health policies and parental choices.

Dr. Justin Kollman's lab at the University of Washington focuses on the structure and function of metabolic enzyme assemblies. They study how different enzymes in cells organize and work together to maintain metabolic balance, especially under changing environmental conditions. By understanding these assemblies, the lab aims to uncover insights into diseases linked to metabolic dysfunction and the potential for new medical therapies.

Dr. Caitlin Shannon Latimer's lab at the University of Washington focuses on understanding the mechanisms underlying Alzheimer's disease, particularly how tau and TDP-43 proteins interact to worsen the condition. Using C. elegans as a model organism, her research aims to uncover the roles of specific genes and pathways that contribute to the severity of Alzheimer's when TDP-43 is also present. By combining molecular biology techniques with human brain tissue analysis, the lab seeks to identify potential targets for new treatments and diagnostic methods for Alzheimer's disease and related conditions.

Dr. Kristen P Lindgren's lab at the University of Washington focuses on understanding how identity influences alcohol use, especially during important life transitions like graduating high school or college. They are exploring ways to shift students' perceptions of their drinking identity to help prevent alcohol misuse and reduce problematic drinking behaviors. The lab combines psychological theories with practical interventions to identify strategies that could help young adults navigate these critical periods with fewer alcohol-related issues.

Dr. Michael Gerner's lab at the University of Washington focuses on understanding how different areas within lymphoid tissues help shape the body's immune responses. The team uses advanced imaging techniques to explore how various immune cells interact during inflammation and vaccination, aiming to uncover the mechanisms behind the formation of distinct immune responses. Their research has implications for better vaccine designs and therapies to enhance immune function.

Dr. David J. Marcinek's lab at the University of Washington focuses on understanding how aging affects mitochondria, which are crucial for energy production in our cells. By studying changes in mitochondrial function and their impact on heart and muscle health, the lab aims to develop interventions that could improve quality of life for older adults. Current projects investigate the role of specific protein interactions in aging and the effects of natural supplements like urolithin A on cardiac function.

Dr. Joanne Wang's lab at the University of Washington focuses on understanding how nutrients and drugs are transported from the mother to the fetus through key organs like the placenta and developing gut. They study the protein transporters that facilitate this process and their role in protecting the developing brain and body of neonates and infants. The research aims to shed light on how these transport proteins affect the safety and effectiveness of medications and nutrients during early development.

Dr. Elizabeth A Nance's lab at the University of Washington focuses on developing therapies for infants born prematurely, who often face serious neurological challenges. The lab uses advanced techniques in both cultured brain tissues and ferret models to explore how to combine various neuroprotective treatments to improve brain health and development in these vulnerable infants.

Dr. Andre Berndt's lab at the University of Washington focuses on developing advanced fluorescent sensors to monitor neuronal activity in the brain. By utilizing machine learning and high-throughput screening methods, the lab aims to create red fluorescent calcium and neuromodulator sensors that outperform existing green sensors in terms of stability and efficiency. This research is critical for advancing our understanding of brain functionality and addressing neurological disorders.

Dr. Smita Yadav's lab at the University of Washington focuses on understanding how protein kinases, particularly TAOK1, affect the growth and function of neurons. The research examines how mutations in TAOK1 are linked to autism and related disorders, revealing the complex processes that govern neuronal development and how these processes can go awry. Through innovative techniques in biochemistry and stem cell biology, the lab seeks to uncover new therapies for neurodevelopmental disorders.

Dr. Jay Z Parrish's lab at the University of Washington focuses on understanding why certain neurons are more vulnerable to degeneration, particularly those with long axons, by studying the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster. They investigate a genetic pathway that influences the production of inflammatory signals affecting neuron health. Ultimately, their research aims to provide insights that could lead to better treatments for neurodegenerative disorders which impact many people worldwide.

Dr. Sandeep Khot's lab focuses on improving the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in stroke patients. The research aims to enhance adherence to CPAP therapy through tailored behavioral interventions. By optimizing this treatment, the lab seeks to improve recovery outcomes and reduce the risks associated with stroke, such as recurrent strokes and cardiovascular events.