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Lynn Jorde — 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.
Aaron R Quinlan — Dr. Aaron R. Quinlan's lab focuses on creating innovative algorithms and tools to analyze large genomic datasets. As genomics research expands, existing methods struggle to keep up with the size and complexity of new data. The lab aims to enhance the capabilities of genome arithmetic, allowing researchers to effectively explore, compare, and visualize vast genomic information, thus facilitating new discoveries in the field.
Wesley I. Sundquist — The lab of Dr. Wesley I. Sundquist at the University of Utah focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms behind HIV-1 virus assembly and release from host cells. By studying the roles of specific host proteins and cellular pathways, the research aims to identify how HIV-1 exploits these mechanisms and how certain proteins can inhibit viral release. This research not only targets HIV but also provides insights into other enveloped viruses and potential therapeutic strategies against viral infections.
Ryan M O'Connell — 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.
June Louise Round — Dr. June Louise Round's lab focuses on understanding the interactions between the immune system and the microbiota, particularly the virome—viruses that live in and on the body. They study how bacteriophages, a type of virus, influence immune system development and explore the links between intestinal health and diseases like inflammatory bowel disease and diabetes. Their research aims to identify beneficial viral and bacterial communities that can promote health and prevent disease.
Dennis L Parker — Dr. Dennis L Parker's lab focuses on advancing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques for the evaluation and management of carotid artery disease. The lab collaborates with multiple centers to develop user-friendly, non-contrast MRI methods that can provide critical information about atherosclerosis without the need for complex procedures. The ultimate goal is to improve clinical practices and patient outcomes through innovative imaging and analysis techniques.
John S Parkinson — 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.
Eric W Schmidt — 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.
Jason D Shepherd — 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.