Dr. E. Ashley Moseman's lab at Duke University focuses on understanding the immune responses in the upper respiratory tract, particularly how specific antibody-producing cells called plasma cells function to protect the olfactory mucosa. This research is crucial for improving vaccine strategies to better prevent infections like SARS-CoV-2 that target the respiratory system. By studying how these plasma cells establish and maintain residency in the tissue, the lab aims to enhance our understanding of local immunity against airborne pathogens.

Dr. Debra L. Silver's lab at Duke University studies how unique genetic features of humans affect brain development and function. They focus on special areas of DNA that control gene activity in the brain, particularly during the growth of neural stem cells. By understanding these processes, the lab aims to uncover the biological foundations of human intelligence and how they relate to neurological disorders.

Dr. Kevin Franks' lab at Duke University focuses on understanding how the brain processes smells. His research examines how different cells in the brain's olfactory cortex discriminate between and recognize odors, as well as how these processes relate to memory and behavior. The insights gained could help improve our understanding of diseases affecting the sense of smell, like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, which is especially important given the recent impacts of conditions such as COVID-19.

Dr. Jonathan Viventi's lab at Duke University focuses on developing advanced technology to help patients with severe speech impairments, such as those caused by ALS or Locked-in Syndrome. The main goal is to create a wireless device that can capture brain signals and translate them into speech, allowing these individuals to communicate more effectively. By using high-density micro-electrocorticographic arrays and machine learning algorithms, the lab aims to transform how technology assists with verbal communication for those who need it most.

The lab led by Dr. Benjamin Wildman-Tobriner focuses on improving the management of thyroid nodules using advanced imaging techniques and artificial intelligence. The main goal of the research is to reduce unnecessary biopsies and treatments for low-risk thyroid cancers by developing criteria that emphasize patient outcomes rather than merely diagnosing cancer. By integrating machine learning with ultrasound imaging, the lab aims to enhance diagnostic accuracy and ultimately lower healthcare costs.

David Tobin's lab at Duke University focuses on understanding tuberculosis, particularly how genetic factors influence the disease's development and progression. The lab studies the formation of granulomas, a key structure in TB infection, and how Mycobacterium tuberculosis interacts with the immune system. By using various animal models, including mice and zebrafish, the lab investigates the genetic basis of TB susceptibility and how bacterial traits contribute to disease dissemination.

Dr. Zhao Zhang's lab at Duke University focuses on understanding how transposons, which make up a significant portion of our DNA, can influence our health and development. They use advanced techniques to investigate the regulation of these genetic elements and their interactions with our biological systems. The lab's work not only seeks to uncover fundamental mechanisms but also aims to find ways to control transposon activity for health benefits.

Dr. Raphael H. Valdivia's lab at Duke University focuses on studying the beneficial gut bacterium Akkermansia muciniphila, which plays an important role in our metabolic and immune health. The lab investigates how this microbe binds to and utilizes mucin, a key component of our gut environment. By employing advanced genetic and proteomic techniques, researchers aim to uncover the detailed mechanisms behind mucin acquisition and digestion, which could enhance our understanding of probiotic therapies.

Dr. George Truskey's research lab focuses on understanding and developing therapies for Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome (HGPS), a rare genetic disorder that causes rapid aging in children. The lab utilizes in vitro models of human blood vessels made from induced pluripotent stem cells to study the disease's effects on vascular function and to explore potential genetic therapies using advanced gene editing techniques. This research aims to improve the treatment of HGPS and other rare diseases that lack sufficient patients for clinical trials.

The research lab focuses on developing advanced diagnostic tools for early detection of head and neck cancers, especially in low-resource settings. They aim to create portable, easy-to-use devices that utilize novel nanotechnology to quickly identify cancer markers, improving outcomes for underserved communities. By integrating cutting-edge techniques in molecular analysis, the lab's work is designed to provide faster and more accurate cancer diagnostics, ultimately saving lives.

Dr. Kenichi Yokoyama's lab at Duke University focuses on understanding how enzymes that utilize metals (metalloenzymes) work, particularly in the creation of essential compounds found in nature. They study the way these enzymes help synthesize complex molecules and investigate how to block the action of key fungal enzymes to combat fungal infections. Overall, their research aims to reveal new ways to develop drugs that can help treat significant health issues caused by pathogenic fungi.

Dr. Pei Zhong's research lab at Duke University focuses on improving the treatment of urinary stone disease using advanced laser technologies. The lab explores the effectiveness of Thulium Fiber Lasers (TFL) in a clinical setting, aiming to optimize laser settings to minimize thermal injury while enhancing stone ablation efficiency. Through a combination of experiments and computer modeling, the lab seeks to develop better strategies for laser lithotripsy, which is crucial for managing this increasingly common condition.

Dr. Pei Zhou's lab at Duke University focuses on developing new antibiotics to combat multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria, which are increasingly difficult to treat. The lab specifically studies LpxH, an enzyme critical for bacterial survival, and aims to create inhibitors that can effectively treat infections caused by resistant pathogens like E. coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Their innovative approach looks to exploit unexploited pathways in bacteria, potentially leading to breakthroughs in antibiotic therapy.