Dr. Lee Zou's lab at Duke University focuses on understanding the challenges cancer cells face during DNA replication, known as replication stress. By investigating how different oncogenic events cause distinct replication problems, the lab aims to uncover the vulnerabilities in cancer cells that can be targeted for therapy. The research also explores how RNA influences DNA replication and the broader effects of replication stress on tumor microenvironments, which could lead to novel treatments for cancer.

The Schumacher lab at Duke University focuses on unraveling the molecular mechanisms behind protein-nucleic acid interactions in biology. Their research investigates how certain bacteria sense their environment and develop, as well as how they can cause disease. One of their key projects aims to understand the virulence of Francisella tularensis, which causes tularemia and is a potent bioweapon. By exploring these biological processes, the lab hopes to identify new targets for developing antibiotics, especially against drug-resistant bacteria.

Dr. Anru Zhang's lab focuses on improving the assessment and treatment of sepsis, a life-threatening condition that arises from the body's response to infection. Using advanced statistical techniques, particularly tensor methods, the lab analyzes electronic health record (EHR) data to identify patient characteristics and outcomes more accurately. Their work aims to create innovative tools that enhance clinical decision-making and ultimately improve patient care in hospitals.

Dr. Charmaine Dawn Marie Royal's lab at Duke University focuses on understanding the complex pain experiences of individuals living with sickle cell disease (SCD). The research aims to develop advanced tools that can categorize and predict pain levels and responses to treatments based on various personal and environmental factors. By examining how pain is experienced over time, the lab hopes to improve pain management strategies not only for SCD but also for other chronic pain conditions.

Gustavo M Silva's lab at Duke University focuses on understanding how cells regulate the production of proteins during times of stress. By studying the role of ubiquitin, a small protein that marks others for degradation, the lab aims to unravel mechanisms that lead to diseases like neurodegeneration and cancer. Their research could help develop new strategies to improve health and combat stress-related conditions.

Dr. Nenad Bursac's lab focuses on developing advanced engineered human skeletal muscle tissues to better understand and study muscle regeneration and the role of muscle stem cells. By creating complex 3D tissue models that mimic the natural environment of muscle stem cells, the lab aims to explore how different cell types interact and how these interactions affect muscle health and recovery. This research has significant implications for treating diseases like muscular dystrophies and improving muscle repair mechanisms.

Dr. Scott H. Soderling's lab at Duke University investigates how specific proteins called kinases regulate neuronal function and contribute to brain disorders. The lab employs advanced techniques like AI algorithms and CRISPR to explore the molecular mechanics underlying neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson's, and developmental disorders like Autism Spectrum Disorder. They aim to deepen our understanding of these conditions and identify potential therapeutic strategies.

Dr. Marc A. Sommer's lab at Duke University focuses on improving methods to manipulate neurons in the primate brain using light-sensitive proteins called opsins. They are specifically addressing challenges in delivering these proteins effectively with viral vectors, which can face issues due to the primate immune response. Through this research, the lab aims to enhance our understanding of visual and motor systems in the brain and improve gene therapy techniques that may also translate to human applications.

Dr. Pengfei Song's lab focuses on advancing ultrasound imaging technology, specifically developing a novel clip-on device that transforms standard 2D ultrasound systems into functional 3D imaging devices. This technology aims to make 3D ultrasound imaging more accessible and efficient for clinical applications, particularly in diagnosing conditions like breast cancer. The research integrates ultrasound innovation with medical device design to improve patient care.

Dr. Michel Bagnat's lab studies the biological mechanisms behind vertebrate spine formation and gut nutrient absorption. The team focuses on specialized cells in the notochord and enterocytes, using models like zebrafish and mice. Their research aims to uncover how these cells regulate crucial processes that could inform treatments for spinal dysfunction and improve understanding of digestive health, particularly in infants.

Dr. Michael R. Tadross's lab at Duke University focuses on advancing neuropharmacology to improve treatments for neuropsychiatric disorders. The lab is developing an innovative technology called DART, which allows for precise drug delivery to specific types of brain cells in a noninvasive way. By understanding and targeting the cellular mechanisms of behavior, the team aims to transform how we study brain disorders and enhance treatment options for patients.

Dr. Conejo-Garcia's lab focuses on developing innovative immunotherapies for cancer treatment. They engineer specialized antibodies that can penetrate tumor cells, targeting specific mutated proteins responsible for cancer growth. The goal is to enhance the effectiveness of immunotherapies and help patients whose tumors are resistant to current treatments.

Dr. Tatiana Segura's lab at Duke University focuses on developing innovative biomaterials to aid recovery after ischemic stroke. By utilizing extracellular vesicles from activated astrocytes, the lab explores new therapies that promote brain repair and regeneration instead of merely protecting against damage. The ultimate goal is to create effective treatments that target the underlying issues of stroke-related disabilities, offering new hope for patients.

Dr. Ahmad R. Hariri's lab at Duke University focuses on understanding how individual differences in brain structure during midlife relate to the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. By utilizing imaging techniques and tracking health data from participants over decades, the research aims to identify biomarkers that could inform early interventions. This work not only addresses a growing public health concern but also seeks to improve strategies for preventing cognitive decline before it becomes clinically apparent.

Dr. Joseph Heitman's lab at Duke University focuses on understanding how certain fungi, particularly Cryptococcus and Mucor species, can cause infections in humans and develop resistance to antifungal drugs. His team investigates molecular pathways related to stress response and virulence, aiming to discover new therapeutic targets for these serious pathogens. The research is crucial for improving treatment strategies for infections that are particularly deadly in immunocompromised individuals like those with HIV/AIDS.

Dr. Donald McDonnell's lab at Duke University focuses on how hormones like estrogens and androgens influence cancer biology. They investigate the mechanisms by which these hormones affect tumor growth, immune responses, and treatment outcomes in various cancers. The lab aims to develop new therapeutic strategies that improve how we use hormone-targeting drugs to treat both reproductive and non-reproductive cancers.

Dr. Xiaoyue Ni's lab at Duke University is focused on advancing brain imaging technology to better understand brain function in both healthy and disordered states. By developing an innovative four-dimensional ultrasound-based imaging system that can adapt to the contours of a non-human primate's head, the lab aims to provide real-time insights into brain activities during various behaviors. This research has the potential to transform how we study, diagnose, and treat neurological conditions.

Dr. David Sherwood's lab at Duke University focuses on understanding how cells invade through the basement membrane, a crucial structure surrounding tissues. This research is significant because cell invasion plays a role in both healthy processes like tissue development and in diseases such as cancer and multiple sclerosis. By using the model organism C. elegans, the lab explores how cells manage energy and create structures necessary for breaching these membranes, which could lead to better treatments for diseases involving abnormal cell invasion.

Dr. Andrew B. West's lab at Duke University focuses on understanding the role of a protein called LRRK2 in Parkinson's disease and related dementias. LRRK2 mutations are linked to the onset and progression of neurodegenerative diseases, and the lab is investigating how these mutations affect neuronal health and inflammation in the brain. Through advanced techniques and patient studies, they aim to uncover new therapeutic targets that could lead to improved treatments for these devastating conditions.

Dr. John F. Rawls' lab focuses on how gut microbes influence intestinal health and inflammation. By studying the interactions between the gut microbiota and intestinal cells, the lab aims to uncover mechanisms that contribute to conditions like inflammatory bowel disease. This research has the potential to inform new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for treating intestinal infections and diseases.