Dr. Vahe Bandarian's lab at the University of Utah focuses on discovering how enzymes work to create complex natural products, like certain small molecules and modified peptides. By studying these enzymes, the lab aims to uncover how they contribute to various biological processes and their potential for developing new treatments for diseases. The lab uses a combination of biochemical, structural and spectroscopic techniques to unlock the secrets behind these molecular machines.

Dr. Maria Bettini's lab focuses on understanding how T cells, which are crucial for immune responses, may contribute to autoimmune diseases like Type 1 Diabetes (T1D). The lab investigates the mechanics of T cell receptor interactions with self-antigens and how these interactions can lead to T cell persistence in autoimmune conditions. By using cutting-edge technologies, they aim to uncover how T cells can evade normal regulatory mechanisms, potentially leading to new therapies for autoimmune diseases.

Dr. Matthew Bettini's lab studies how early life exposure to microbes influences immune system development, particularly focusing on T cells produced in the thymus. They also explore how enhancing Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T cell therapies can improve cancer treatments by fine-tuning intracellular signaling pathways. Understanding these mechanisms could lead to better prevention of allergies and asthma, as well as more effective cancer immunotherapies.

Dr. Edward Vr Dibella's lab focuses on improving MRI techniques to assess heart conditions, particularly myocardial fibrosis, which is important for diagnosing various cardiac diseases. By developing non-contrast MRI methods, the lab aims to provide better, safer ways to monitor heart health, especially for patients who cannot use traditional contrast agents. Their research has significant implications for public health, helping to enhance diagnosis and treatment evaluation for millions affected by cardiac diseases.

Dr. Jason D. Shepherd's lab at the University of Utah studies how brain cells communicate and change at the synapse—the connections between neurons—specifically focusing on the protein Arc, which plays a crucial role in learning and memory. The lab investigates how Arc forms virus-like structures that can carry genetic messages from one neuron to another, potentially impacting synaptic strength and memory formation. By understanding this process, the research aims to uncover new insights into the cognitive functions of the brain and the underlying mechanisms of various mental disorders.

Dr. John S. Parkinson's lab focuses on how bacteria sense and respond to their chemical environments, specifically through their chemoreceptors. By studying the mechanisms of chemotaxis in bacteria like E. coli, the lab aims to uncover the molecular details that enable bacteria to move toward beneficial chemicals and away from harmful substances. This research could lead to innovative treatments for bacterial infections and insights into microbial community behavior.

Dr. Katherine Baucom's lab focuses on developing and testing innovative interventions to help prevent type 2 diabetes, especially among couples. Their work highlights the importance of romantic relationships in promoting health and lifestyle changes. By engaging partners in the intervention, the lab aims to improve health outcomes and address disparities in diabetes prevention among diverse populations.

David Stuart Curtis's research focuses on understanding how location and community characteristics influence individual health and mortality, particularly among middle-aged adults in the U.S. His work aims to uncover the links between socio-economic conditions and health issues such as substance misuse, mental health, and chronic diseases. By analyzing extensive datasets, he seeks to inform public health interventions that address the disparities in health outcomes across different regions.

Dr. Christopher Gregg's lab studies how genetic factors influence decision-making and behaviors, particularly in relation to mental health. They focus on genomic imprinting, which means that certain genes can be expressed depending on whether they come from the mother or the father. Using innovative techniques, they investigate how these genetic influences affect natural behaviors in mice, which may lead to new insights into human mental health and therapeutic approaches.

Dr. Ryan M O'Connell's lab focuses on understanding how gut cells and the immune system work together to maintain digestive health and prevent diseases like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The team investigates how tiny signaling particles called exosomes carry messages between cells in the gut, and how these messages can promote healing and fight inflammation. By exploring the roles of various molecules, including microRNAs and proteins in the communication between gut cells and bacteria, the lab aims to develop new therapies for inflammatory diseases.

Dr. Hans Haecker's lab focuses on understanding how specific proteins and signaling pathways contribute to inflammatory diseases, particularly systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). By investigating the roles of proteins in the Toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling pathway, the lab aims to uncover the mechanisms that lead to inappropriate immune responses. This research not only enhances our understanding of SLE but may also identify potential targets for new therapies.

Dr. Jeffrey Scott Hale's lab focuses on understanding how CD4+ T cells respond to influenza infections. The research explores the mechanisms by which prior exposures to antigens, either through vaccination or infection, shape T cell responses in the lungs. By investigating T cell receptor signaling and epigenetic programming, the lab aims to improve vaccination strategies against influenza, potentially leading to longer-lasting immune protection.

Lynn Jorde's lab focuses on understanding human genetic variation and its links to diseases. They study how mutations occur across generations in families from Utah, investigating the relationship between genetic changes, aging, and health outcomes like lifespan and menopause age. The lab also works on developing new methods to analyze genetic data, particularly using whole-genome sequencing and RNA sequencing.

Dr. Koushik Roy's lab focuses on understanding how certain proteins control the development of immune cells that produce antibodies, specifically targeting the processes that help create long-lasting immunity. In particular, the lab studies how different signaling pathways affect the formation of memory B cells and plasma cells, which are critical for responding to infections and vaccines. The research aims to uncover mechanisms that could lead to improved vaccines and therapies for better immune responses.

Dr. Mei Yee Koh's research lab focuses on understanding how obesity influences liver cancer development, particularly through a protein called HAF. They explore the links between metabolic diseases, like fatty liver disease, and hepatocellular carcinoma, aiming to identify new ways to prevent or treat this aggressive cancer. By studying how HAF functions at the molecular level, the lab hopes to uncover new biomarkers and therapeutic targets that can improve outcomes for patients with liver cancer.

Dr. Emily Larsen Dennis's research lab focuses on improving the understanding and treatment of traumatic brain injuries (TBI) in children and adolescents. They are developing a comprehensive toolbox that addresses current limitations in neuroimaging analysis for pediatric populations, specifically tailored to the unique challenges presented by younger patients. This innovative approach aims to establish personalized profiles of pathology to better identify factors related to recovery and long-term outcomes for TBI patients.

Dr. Wan-Lin Lo's lab at the University of Utah focuses on understanding how CD7 signaling affects T cells, which are crucial for our immune response. The lab studies how CD7 influences T cell activation and differentiation, especially during infections and diseases like cancer and autoimmune disorders. By uncovering the roles of CD7, they aim to develop new therapies that could enhance T cell responses or prevent them from becoming exhausted during chronic conditions.

Dr. Andres Villu Maricq's lab studies a specific type of brain receptor called NMDA receptors, which are crucial for learning and memory. By investigating how these receptors are regulated by a newly discovered protein, NRAP-1, they aim to better understand synaptic signaling in the nervous system. This research has important implications for treating conditions like schizophrenia and depression, as well as understanding fundamental brain processes.

Dr. Eric W Schmidt's lab focuses on discovering new antibacterial drugs and understanding the chemical diversity found in nature, particularly from marine animals and their symbiotic bacteria. They aim to develop innovative compounds that can combat multidrug-resistant pathogens and enhance our understanding of pain signaling in the sensory nervous system. By exploring the unique chemistry of these organisms, the lab hopes to advance drug discovery technologies and improve therapeutic approaches for various diseases.

Dr. Kevin Christopher Brennan's lab focuses on understanding migraines, a debilitating condition that affects millions globally. The research investigates the mechanisms behind migraine attacks, particularly how sensory phenomena like auras may indicate the progression of migraines. By combining imaging techniques and physiological assessments, the lab aims to identify biomarkers that predict migraine severity and progression, ultimately helping to develop better treatments and preventative strategies.