Dr. Samuel H. Gellman’s lab at the University of Wisconsin-Madison explores the roles of proteins and peptides in cellular processes, particularly how they influence signaling pathways and the formation of membraneless organelles. Their research has applications in understanding diseases like diabetes and neurodegenerative disorders, as they investigate how molecular interactions can affect receptor functions and cellular organization. This work could lead to new therapeutic strategies targeting these critical biological mechanisms.

The Smith Lab at the University Of Wisconsin-Madison focuses on innovative approaches to proteomics, specifically targeting 'proteoforms,' which are unique protein variants shaped by specific amino acid sequences and modifications. Their research aims to identify and analyze these proteoforms in complex biological systems, providing insights into how they influence cell functions and responses related to health and disease. By developing advanced tools and methods, the lab contributes to a broader understanding of cellular mechanisms and supports the scientific community's efforts to address health challenges.

Lonie Salkowski's lab at the University of Wisconsin-Madison focuses on improving cancer detection through enhanced training for radiology residents in screening mammography. The lab is developing a specialized simulation system to help residents practice their interpretive skills in a safe environment, aiming to reduce errors in diagnosing breast cancer. Their research combines radiology, computer science, and educational psychology to foster better outcomes for women's health.

Dr. John-Demian Sauer's lab focuses on understanding how the foodborne pathogen Listeria monocytogenes survives inside host cells. The research centers on the unique adaptations that allow these bacteria to thrive in the stressful environment of the cytosol — the liquid found inside cells. By identifying key genes and pathways that help Listeria respond to stress and utilize nutrients, the lab aims to uncover new insights into bacterial behavior and potentially inform public health strategies against infections.

Lara Gerassi's research focuses on understanding risky sexual behaviors, particularly the complexities of sex trading, which includes both in-person and virtual exchanges for compensation. Her lab employs innovative approaches to measure these behaviors comprehensively, moving beyond traditional single-question methods to examine the nuances in circumstances, risks, and protective factors related to sex trading. By utilizing various methodologies and a diverse sample population, her goal is to enhance the understanding of sex trading behaviors, thereby informing effective public health interventions and policies.

Dr. Aaron Matthew Lebeau's lab at the University of Wisconsin-Madison focuses on developing innovative treatments for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), a particularly aggressive form of the disease. The lab specifically explores the use of shark-derived proteins to create targeted therapies that can deliver radiation directly to cancer cells, aiming to improve treatment outcomes for patients. This research is significant due to the lack of effective therapies currently available for TNBC.

Dr. Adel M. Talaat's research lab at the University of Wisconsin-Madison focuses on understanding tuberculosis and its interactions with other infections, particularly COVID-19. The lab aims to improve the efficacy of tuberculosis vaccines using innovative mRNA technology and nanoparticle delivery systems. By studying these interactions in mouse models, the research could lead to better control strategies for both diseases, significantly impacting public health.

Dr. John J. Curtin's research lab focuses on developing advanced digital therapeutics to support individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD). By incorporating machine learning and personal sensing technology, the lab aims to enhance engagement with digital interventions, ultimately improving clinical outcomes for patients. The research strives to optimize how personalized feedback is delivered through smartphone applications to foster sustained use and better treatment effectiveness.

Dr. John M. Denu's lab at the University of Wisconsin-Madison focuses on understanding how cellular metabolism influences the epigenome, the layer of regulation above our DNA. By studying how enzymes modify proteins and how these modifications are affected by nutrition and environmental signals, the lab aims to uncover the intricate mechanisms connecting metabolism and gene expression, ultimately seeking insights into disease causes and potential drug developments.

Dr. Meyer B. Jackson's lab at the University of Wisconsin-Madison examines how cells release signaling molecules through a process called exocytosis. They study the structures involved in this process, known as fusion pores, which regulate the release of neurotransmitters and hormones. By using innovative biophysical techniques, the lab seeks to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying exocytosis and how these processes are altered in various neurological and endocrine disorders.

Dr. Emery H. Bresnick's lab at the University of Wisconsin-Madison focuses on understanding how specific genetic factors (GATA factors) regulate blood cell development. The research aims to uncover the mechanisms that control the behavior of blood stem cells and how genetic variations can lead to diseases like acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). Through innovative models and genetic assessments, the lab seeks to improve strategies for diagnosing and treating blood-related disorders.

Ahna Renee Skop's lab at the University of Wisconsin-Madison investigates how midbody remnants (MBRs), a special type of extracellular vesicle that cells release during division, help with communication between cells. This research explores the molecular contents of MBRs and their roles in health issues like cancer and neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism. The lab uses a range of techniques to delve into how these vesicles can carry information, potentially influencing new treatments for diseases.

Dr. Andrew L. Alexander's lab focuses on developing advanced MRI techniques to study brain development in infants and toddlers. The research addresses challenges in imaging young children, such as movement during scans and the duration and noise of traditional MRI methods. By optimizing imaging technologies for use during natural sleep, the lab aims to provide reliable tools for both clinical and research settings to assess brain health, particularly in infants at risk for conditions like cerebral palsy.

Dr. Katie L. Walsh's lab focuses on addressing the mental health challenges faced by sexual assault survivors, particularly aiming to prevent PTSD and opioid misuse. They are creating and testing innovative interventions, such as video and text messaging programs delivered in emergency departments, which target these issues during critical moments of care. By evaluating the effectiveness of these interventions, the lab works to improve health outcomes for individuals impacted by violence.

Dr. Suresh's lab focuses on developing innovative vaccine adjuvants to improve long-lasting immune responses against respiratory infections caused by viruses and fungi. They study how certain immune cells can be trained to remember and fight off these pathogens effectively. The lab's research aims to create vaccines that not only target respiratory diseases but also enhance the body's memory against various infections, leading to better public health outcomes.

Dr. Matthew R. Reynolds' lab at the University of Wisconsin-Madison focuses on understanding how different sizes of viral reservoirs influence the ability of people with HIV to control the virus after stopping treatment. Using a monkey model, his research aims to clarify the relationship between viral reservoirs, immune responses, and HIV recurrence. This work is crucial for developing effective strategies for HIV cure regimens.

Tina Wang's research lab at the University of Wisconsin-Madison focuses on discovering new cyclic peptides, which are small protein-like molecules with potential therapeutic uses. By developing innovative methods to select cyclic peptides that function effectively within living cells, her lab aims to overcome limitations of traditional peptide discovery techniques. This work could lead to new treatments for diseases that have historically been difficult to target with drugs.

Dr. Deneen Wellik's lab at the University of Wisconsin-Madison studies how different types of muscle cells contribute to muscle growth and repair. They focus on unique interstitial cells in muscles that may play a critical role beyond what was previously understood. This research could help us find better ways to treat muscle loss diseases, especially as people age.

Dr. Tehshik Yoon's lab at the University of Wisconsin-Madison is focused on innovative research in synthetic photochemistry, which utilizes light to drive chemical reactions for biomedical applications. The lab aims to expand the chemical diversity available for developing new medications by discovering novel reaction methods and catalysts that can produce highly reactive intermediates. Their work is crucial for creating life-saving pharmaceuticals and understanding the mechanisms behind these photochemical transformations.