Dr. Thomas M. Coate's lab at Georgetown University focuses on understanding how important connections form between nerve cells and hair cells in the inner ear, which are crucial for hearing. The team investigates neural signaling and the role of specific genes in developing these connections, especially in the context of hearing loss and potential therapies for cochlear damage. By studying the molecular mechanisms involved, the lab aims to find new ways to restore hearing capabilities.

Dr. Shaun R. Brinsmade's lab at Georgetown University focuses on understanding how the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus interacts with other bacteria, particularly in polymicrobial infections like chronic wounds. His research investigates the role of branched-chain fatty acids—essential lipids for bacterial survival and virulence—highlighting how these fatty acids can be salvaged and synthesized in the presence of other bacteria. Ultimately, the goal is to develop new treatments for complex infections that are worsened by multiple bacterial species working together.

Anna Greenwald's lab at Georgetown University focuses on understanding and improving recovery from visuospatial deficits caused by right hemisphere strokes. The lab investigates how these deficits affect daily living and quality of life and aims to develop better diagnostic tools and rehabilitation methods. By studying the brain's neural responses and implementing novel treatments, the lab seeks improvements in stroke rehabilitation and patient outcomes.

Dr. Carole Gresenz’s lab focuses on identifying early signs of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias using financial data. By analyzing credit data and combining it with Medicare records, the lab develops machine learning algorithms to predict the at-risk population for these conditions. The goal is to advance early diagnosis, which is crucial for better management and support of individuals facing these diseases.

Dr. Stephan Menne's lab at Georgetown University focuses on understanding and developing new treatments for chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. The lab works with woodchucks, natural hosts of a closely related virus, to create models that can help evaluate new anti-HBV drugs and better understand how HBV persists in the body. By modifying either the virus or the woodchuck's immune system, the lab aims to improve the efficiency of HBV infection in these models, which is critical for drug development and ultimately for improving patient outcomes.

Dr. Carlos F. Mendes De Leon's lab focuses on understanding the risk factors associated with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) in Nepal, a low-income country facing an aging population. The lab is building research capacity through training in data collection and analysis, and it aims to initiate a longitudinal study to evaluate the prevalence and determinants of ADRD, particularly in relation to international labor migration and the effects of armed conflict. This work not only seeks to uncover critical data for Nepal but also hopes to inform prevention strategies relevant to similar challenges faced in other low-resource countries.

Dr. Anna D. Johnson's lab at Georgetown University focuses on understanding the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on low-income children's development. By studying a large group of students over time, her research investigates how disruptions during the pandemic have influenced academic success, social interactions, and mental health. The lab aims to identify factors that help children recover from these disruptions to inform better support strategies for their development during challenging times.

Dr. Moshe Levi's lab at Georgetown University studies how certain lipids and hormone receptors affect kidney health, especially in conditions like diabetes and obesity. They explore how the composition of these lipids can influence inflammation and mitochondrial function, which are critical for kidney disease progression. The lab uses advanced techniques to understand the underlying mechanisms of age-related kidney disease and how caloric restriction might help mitigate its effects.

Dr. Rebecca Riggins' lab focuses on understanding glioblastoma, one of the most aggressive brain cancers, and exploring innovative treatment strategies. The research investigates how a specific protein, ESRRB, interacts with other cellular components to influence tumor growth and mobility. By manipulating these interactions, the lab aims to develop new therapeutic approaches that could improve survival rates for glioblastoma patients.

Dr. Jeffrey K Huang's lab studies how the immune system interacts with nerve cells to promote healing in conditions like multiple sclerosis, where nerve insulation is damaged. His research involves manipulating specific molecules to encourage nerve cells to repair themselves and improve patient outcomes. By understanding these interactions better, his work aims to develop new treatments that could help individuals suffering from demyelinating diseases.

Dr. Patrick Forcelli's lab focuses on understanding and controlling seizures in epilepsy by exploring the brain's basal ganglia and brainstem networks. They aim to identify and manipulate specific brain circuits that can suppress seizure activity, which is vital for patients who do not respond to traditional treatments. By using advanced techniques like optogenetics and electrophysiology, the lab seeks to uncover new interventions for better seizure control.