Dr. Jolanta Grembecka's lab at the University of Michigan focuses on developing new therapies for acute leukemia, particularly targeting proteins involved in the disease's development. Their research aims to create small molecule inhibitors that can disrupt key interactions, helping to halt the progression of leukemias characterized by specific genetic mutations. This work is vital in improving survival rates for leukemia patients who currently have limited treatment options.

Dr. Stephen Goutman's lab at the University of Michigan focuses on understanding amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a debilitating neurological condition, by investigating the role of the immune system and environmental exposures. The lab aims to develop diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies based on immune signatures and occupational risks associated with ALS, utilizing advanced technologies like spectral flow cytometry to analyze immune profiles in patients. Their research seeks to enhance predictions of disease progression and inform prevention strategies for individuals at higher risk of developing ALS.

Dr. David Brang's research focuses on understanding how our brains combine visual information, like lip movements, with sounds we hear to improve our ability to understand speech, especially in noisy environments. This is crucial for people with hearing loss or brain injuries, as it can significantly enhance their speech perception. The lab investigates the complex neural processes involved in audiovisual interactions to develop better rehabilitation techniques and support healthier aging.

Dr. Daniel J. Klionsky's lab at the University of Michigan focuses on understanding autophagy, a crucial cellular process for maintaining health and preventing disease. They explore how this process is regulated and its implications for conditions like cancer, heart disease, and neurodegeneration. By studying yeast models, the lab aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms and proteins involved in autophagy, providing insights that could lead to new therapeutic strategies.

Dr. Ruma V Banerjee's lab at the University of Michigan focuses on the intricate process of Vitamin B12 trafficking in the cell. They study how this essential nutrient is guided by specific proteins, called chaperones, to reach its target enzymes in the cytoplasm and mitochondria. The lab is particularly interested in understanding the molecular mechanisms that underlie inherited defects in Vitamin B12 metabolism, which can lead to serious health issues.

Dr. Mats Ljungman’s lab at the University of Michigan focuses on developing innovative cancer therapies using CRISPR technology, specifically targeting bladder cancer cells. The lab's research aims to precisely induce DNA damage in cancer cells by using a split CRISPR enzyme approach that minimizes effects on normal cells. Their goal is to advance this technique towards clinical trials, providing a new avenue for effective treatments for bladder cancer.

Dr. Michael Boehnke's lab focuses on understanding the genetic underpinnings of type 2 diabetes (T2D) to help improve prediction, prevention, and treatment options for this prevalent disease. Through extensive genetic research and collaboration, the team aims to identify specific genes and mechanisms that contribute to T2D risk and related health traits. Their work is crucial in addressing the public health crisis caused by the rising rates of diabetes globally.

Dr. Nicolaas Ida Bohnen's lab focuses on how the brain's cholinergic system affects balance and movement in individuals with Parkinson's disease and older adults. The team investigates how changes in specific brain regions influence postural control and the risk of falls. By studying these relationships, the lab aims to uncover potential new strategies for preventing balance disorders associated with aging and neurological diseases.

Dr. Jailson Brito Querido's lab at the University of Michigan studies the role of a specific genetic mutation in two serious neurodegenerative diseases: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD). Their work focuses on understanding how abnormal translation of RNA—specifically a repeat in the C9orf72 gene—leads to the formation of toxic proteins that damage neurons. By using advanced imaging and molecular techniques, they aim to uncover details of how this process happens and how it could be targeted for future therapies.

Dr. Charles L. Brooks' lab focuses on using computer simulations to study biological molecules and how they interact, particularly in the context of drug design and cellular processes. By developing advanced theoretical methods, the team aims to better understand how small molecules can affect proteins and other biological systems, which is crucial for biomedical research and drug discovery. Collaborations with experimental labs allow for practical applications and validations of their computational approaches.

Dr. Brian Callaghan's lab focuses on understanding the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of new treatments for Alzheimer's disease, especially in Black and low-income populations. By evaluating the real-world impacts of anti-amyloid medications, the lab aims to address healthcare disparities and improve access to effective treatments. This research is crucial for ensuring that vulnerable populations receive equitable healthcare benefits while navigating potential challenges like adverse events and cost barriers.

Duxin Sun's lab at the University of Michigan focuses on innovative cancer therapies, specifically a new type of cancer vaccine known as VAM-B/CD4. This vaccine is designed to enhance the interactions between B cells and CD4 T cells, which is essential for generating a long-lasting immune response against various types of cancers. The lab aims to improve the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy by incorporating B cell-targeted strategies into vaccine design, potentially leading to better outcomes for patients.

Dr. William G. Axinn's research focuses on understanding the transition from childhood to adulthood in the context of U.S. families. Through the Panel Study of Income Dynamics (PSID), his lab collects detailed longitudinal data about young adults, examining factors such as family dynamics, reproductive health, and educational transitions. This work aims to provide insights into how policies and individual experiences shape the journey to adulthood.

Dr. Pierre Coulombe's lab at the University of Michigan studies how skin cells called keratinocytes influence the immune response during skin inflammation. Their research focuses on understanding how signals produced by these cells can affect immune cells like neutrophils, which play a critical role in skin disorders such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. By exploring how different proteins in keratinocytes interact with immune pathways, the lab aims to uncover new ways to diagnose and treat chronic skin diseases.

Dr. Wei Cheng's lab at the University of Michigan studies how B cells, a type of immune cell, recognize and respond to viruses and viral-like particles. By using advanced techniques to create model antigens, the lab explores the intricate mechanisms through which B cells are activated, leading to stronger immune responses. This research not only enhances our understanding of the immune system but also aids in the development of better vaccines against viral infections.

Dr. Nicholas Lukacs's lab at the University of Michigan focuses on understanding how the immune system reacts to viruses and allergens in chronic lung diseases like severe asthma. The research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind changes in lung function and structure, which can lead to better therapies. The lab studies the roles of different immune cells and molecules, particularly during early disease stages, and how they might influence long-term health outcomes.

Dr. Mellanie V Springer’s lab focuses on understanding the cognitive challenges faced by stroke survivors, particularly the risk of Vascular Cognitive Impairment and Dementia (VCID). The team investigates how everyday activities like reading and solving puzzles can help protect brain health after a stroke. They also explore the impact of sleep disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea, on cognitive decline in stroke patients. By identifying modifiable factors, the lab aims to develop practical interventions to improve cognitive outcomes for stroke survivors.

Dr. Catherine Cook Kaczorowski's research lab at the University of Michigan focuses on understanding the genetic factors that influence cognitive aging and Alzheimer's disease (AD). The team studies how genetic and environmental factors, including sleep and diet, impact brain function and resilience to cognitive decline. By using advanced mouse models and comparing findings to human datasets, the lab aims to identify potential therapeutic targets to improve quality of life for those affected by Alzheimer's disease and cognitive impairments.

Dr. Yuni K Dewaraja's research lab at the University of Michigan focuses on improving radioligand therapy for prostate cancer. The lab aims to make cancer treatment more personalized by developing methods to calculate the optimal dosage of radiation based on each patient's unique characteristics and response to therapy. By utilizing advanced imaging and modeling techniques, the research seeks to enhance treatment efficacy and reduce side effects for patients.

Dr. Michael Dorsch's lab at the University of Michigan focuses on using technology to help people reduce their sodium intake and lower blood pressure, particularly in those with hypertension. They are testing a mobile app that sends personalized reminders and information about sodium content in foods when users are shopping or dining out. The goal is to see if this approach works over time and leads to improved health outcomes by making it easier for patients to manage their diets and blood pressure.