Jin Xie — Dr. Jin Xie's lab at the University of Georgia focuses on enhancing cancer treatment by using advanced technology to improve the response of the immune system to tumors. Specifically, the lab is developing calcium nanoparticles that can help immune cells called dendritic cells migrate to tumors more effectively, which could make therapies combining radiation and immune treatment more successful. Their research aims to better understand and manipulate immune responses to improve outcomes for cancer patients.
David Crich — Dr. David Crich's lab focuses on developing next-generation aminoglycoside antibiotics that are effective against multidrug-resistant bacteria while minimizing side effects like hearing loss and kidney damage. By synthesizing and optimizing new compounds, the lab aims to create more effective treatments with improved safety profiles. Research includes a combination of laboratory assays and animal models to test efficacy and toxicity.
Arthi Kanthasamy — Dr. Arthi Kanthasamy's research lab focuses on understanding how neuroinflammation contributes to Parkinson's disease and related disorders. The lab studies a specific protein, called 'ALKBH5', which plays a role in how immune cells in the brain respond to nerve injury. By investigating the mechanisms of inflammation and cellular signaling processes, the lab aims to develop new therapeutic strategies to treat neurodegenerative diseases.
Michael P Terns — Dr. Michael P Terns' lab focuses on understanding how bacteria defend themselves against viruses using CRISPR-Cas systems and how viruses counter these defenses. They study the molecular mechanisms behind these interactions to enhance CRISPR technologies for medical applications. The ultimate goal is to apply this knowledge to improve tools for gene editing, disease diagnosis, and combating antibiotic resistance.
Rick L Tarleton — Dr. Rick L Tarleton's lab focuses on improving diagnostics and treatment strategies for Chagas disease, caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. By developing more sensitive detection methods using advanced PCR techniques, the lab aims to enhance understanding of the parasite's lifecycle and effectively monitor treatment outcomes in both humans and animals, particularly dogs. This research addresses a major health challenge in Latin America and aims to improve public health interventions.
Gregory P Strauss — Dr. Gregory P. Strauss's lab at the University of Georgia focuses on understanding and improving emotion regulation in individuals with psychotic disorders. They are investigating whether a novel cognitive training program, delivered through a smartphone app, can enhance brain function and alleviate difficulties with managing emotions. Their work aims to create a more effective and accessible treatment for mental health challenges associated with these disorders.
Jason R Richardson — Dr. Jason R. Richardson's lab at the University of Georgia focuses on understanding how microglial cells, which are the brain's immune defenders, contribute to neuroinflammation and diseases like Parkinson's. The lab is particularly interested in a specific proton channel called Hv1 and how its activity influences the brain's response to toxic substances like paraquat, a common herbicide. By delving into the mechanisms behind these processes, the goal is to discover new therapeutic strategies that could help slow down or prevent neurodegenerative diseases.
Frederick D Quinn — Dr. Frederick D. Quinn's lab at the University of Georgia focuses on developing novel vaccines to combat respiratory infections, particularly tuberculosis. Using advanced nanoparticle technology, the lab is researching ways to stimulate local immune responses in the lungs to provide better protection against diseases caused by inhaled pathogens. By combining multiple mycobacterial proteins with immune-boosting components, they aim to create a more effective vaccine that builds on existing methods.
Xiaorong Lin — Dr. Xiaorong Lin's lab focuses on developing a vaccine for cryptococcal meningoencephalitis, a severe fungal infection that is particularly dangerous for people with HIV/AIDS. The lab studies the life cycle of the fungus Cryptococcus neoformans, specifically its transition between different forms, to understand how it interacts with the immune system. By harnessing unique immunogenic properties of the fungus, the lab aims to create effective vaccines that can provide protection even for individuals with weakened immune systems.