Dr. Issam Ben-Sahra's lab at Northwestern University focuses on understanding how cells grow and develop by studying the complex interactions between nutrient signaling and nucleotide metabolism. They investigate the molecular mechanisms that link signaling pathways to nucleotide production, which are critical for various cell functions like growth and energy production. Their recent work has reshaped our understanding of how nucleotides influence cellular metabolism and has implications for developing new therapeutic strategies.

Shana O'Kelley's lab focuses on developing advanced sensor technologies to continuously monitor heart failure biomarkers in patients. The lab's innovative research aims to create wearable sensors that can detect important biochemical signals without the need for complex reagents, making it easier to track heart health in real-time. By integrating electrochemical sensors with biocompatible materials, the team seeks to provide better management for heart failure patients through continuous monitoring.

Dr. Christina Maria Zelano's research focuses on understanding how the human brain processes smells, specifically how it distinguishes between different odors based on their intensity and identity. By recording electrical signals from the olfactory cortex during odor perception, the lab aims to bridge the gap between brain activity and how we consciously experience smells. This work not only enhances our comprehension of the olfactory system's functioning but can also provide insights into neurological diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's that are linked to these brain areas.

Dr. Puneet Opal's lab at Northwestern University focuses on the cellular mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases, specifically Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 1 (SCA1) and Giant Axonal Neuropathy (GAN). The lab explores how early developmental changes in the brain lead to movement disorders and neuronal death, aiming to uncover new therapeutic strategies. Through advanced mouse models and molecular techniques, they examine the roles of specific proteins and cellular processes that contribute to these diseases.

Dr. Ertugrul M Ozbudak's research lab at Northwestern University focuses on understanding how vertebrates develop their spinal structures, specifically through the process of somitogenesis, where the body segments are formed. The lab investigates how genetic regulation and signaling mechanisms ensure that this process is precise and resilient to variations between cells. By studying these aspects, the lab aims to uncover fundamental insights that could help prevent spinal malformations.

Dr. Pembe Hande Ozdinler's lab focuses on developing new treatment strategies for neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and frontotemporal dementia. Their key compound, NU-9, shows promise in reducing harmful protein aggregation and improving neuron health. The lab explores how NU-9 works at a cellular level, aiming to enhance neuronal function, survival, and overall brain health through innovative drug discovery.

Dr. Mark D. Bevan's research lab at Northwestern University focuses on understanding the degeneration of neurons in Parkinson's disease and its effects on movement. The lab uses a genetic mouse model to study how brain circuits function during different stages of the disease. They explore potential therapies that might restore normal brain activity and prevent further degeneration of neurons, which could help improve motor function in individuals affected by Parkinson's disease.

Dr. Brandon Lyon Jutras's lab focuses on understanding Lyme disease, particularly how a bacterial component called peptidoglycan can drive persistent symptoms in patients even after treatment. The lab investigates the unique properties of peptidoglycan from the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, which causes Lyme disease, to figure out its role in ongoing health issues like arthritis. By uncovering how and why peptidoglycan persists in the body, the research aims to develop better therapeutic strategies for Lyme disease patients whose symptoms persist post-antibiotic treatment.

Dr. Eric Jon Perreault's lab focuses on improving rehabilitation techniques by developing noninvasive methods to assess muscle function and structure. They study how muscle stiffness and force can impact movement, especially in patients with disorders like stroke or cerebral palsy. By utilizing advanced ultrasound techniques, the lab aims to provide accurate measurements that can enhance recovery protocols for individuals with musculoskeletal injuries.

Dr. Tiffany M. Schmidt's lab at Northwestern University focuses on understanding the genetic factors that influence the diversity of intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) in the retina. These specialized cells are crucial for various physiological responses to light. By studying these cells, the lab aims to uncover how different subtypes of ipRGCs are formed and how they function, which could enhance our understanding of the retina and the nervous system as a whole.

Dr. Murali Prakriya's lab at Northwestern University focuses on understanding calcium signaling in the brain, particularly through specialized channels that allow calcium to enter cells. By studying store-operated calcium entry and CRAC channels, the team explores how these channels work at the molecular and structural levels and what roles they play in neuronal functions like memory and synaptic communication. The work is aimed at uncovering insights that could lead to new treatments for neurological disorders involving calcium signaling dysfunction.

Ulas Bagci's lab focuses on harnessing advanced deep learning techniques to predict the risk of pulmonary fibrosis in patients who have recovered from COVID-19. This research aims to identify early indicators that could lead to better therapeutic interventions and a deeper understanding of lung health post-infection. The lab combines imaging data, such as CT scans, with electronic health records to create comprehensive predictive models that address a pressing public health need.

Dr. Gayle E. Woloschak's research lab focuses on understanding the effects of internal exposure to radionuclides, which can occur due to accidents or medical treatments. They study how these radionuclides distribute within different organs at various scales, from cellular to tissue levels, to improve protective measures for health and safety. The lab combines various scientific disciplines such as radiation physics, chemistry, and biology to develop better models and countermeasures against the harmful effects of radiation exposure.

Dr. Jeffrey Nicholas Savas's lab at Northwestern University focuses on understanding the early stages of Alzheimer's disease, particularly the role of amyloid beta plaques in brain degeneration. The lab uses innovative imaging techniques to track how amyloid plaques form and evolve over time in mouse models. This research is vital for uncovering how these plaques contribute to cognitive decline and could inform new treatments for Alzheimer's disease.

Dr. Gordon Shepherd's lab focuses on understanding how the brain controls movements, particularly through the study of the motor cortex circuits involved in arm and hand movements. The lab explores how different areas of the brain communicate during these actions, aiming to uncover mechanisms that may lead to better treatments for movement disorders. By using advanced techniques, the research seeks to advance our knowledge about how sensory information and motor planning interact in the brain.

Dr. Ali Shilatifard's lab focuses on understanding how mutations in chromatin modifiers like MLL4 contribute to cancer, especially bladder cancer. His research combines biochemical studies with pre-clinical trials to explore how these mutations can inform targeted therapies and improve patient treatment options. By studying specific mutations and their effects, the lab aims to develop biomarkers for better cancer diagnostics and treatment strategies.

Dr. Vipul Shukla's lab at Northwestern University focuses on understanding how specialized immune responses are regulated in germinal centers, where B cells evolve to produce effective antibodies. The research investigates the roles of specific protein complexes that remodel DNA to influence B cell behavior and maintain a balanced immune response. Ultimately, the work aims to uncover the mechanisms important for generating robust immunity and how inflammation might disrupt these processes.

Dr. Richard S. Smith's research lab focuses on understanding how ion channel dysfunctions, particularly in sodium channels, affect brain development and lead to neurological disorders in children. By studying these processes in unique animal models, such as transient transgenic ferrets, the lab aims to uncover the biological origins of severe brain malformations and develop innovative RNA-based therapies that can intervene early in life to prevent long-term damage. Their work combines advanced experimental techniques with high-throughput screening methods to create effective treatments for complex neurodevelopmental diseases.

Dr. Farzaneh Sorond's lab focuses on understanding how changes in the brain's white matter may affect mobility and cognitive function in older adults, especially those at higher risk like African Americans and women. By analyzing brain imaging data, the lab aims to identify characteristics that help some older individuals maintain their mobility and mental sharpness despite potential brain health challenges. Their research seeks to contribute to better treatment strategies and enhance brain health in aging populations.

Dr. Jeffery A Goldstein's lab focuses on using advanced machine learning techniques to understand the causes of stillbirth, a heartbreaking event affecting thousands of families each year. By analyzing placental histopathology, the lab aims to develop models that help identify placental issues leading to stillbirth, thereby improving diagnosis and treatment options. This research not only seeks to enhance understanding of stillbirth causes but also hopes to support families in their future pregnancies by providing personalized care based on identified risks.