Stephen J Moss — Dr. Stephen J. Moss's lab at Tufts University focuses on understanding how neuroactive steroids affect brain function, particularly through a family of receptors known as G-protein coupled receptors. These steroids can influence behavior and may offer new treatments for mental health issues like postpartum depression. The lab uses various techniques to explore how these compounds mediate their effects on neuronal excitability and might lead to innovative strategies for improving mental health.
Helen Suh — Dr. Helen Suh's research lab focuses on understanding how extreme weather events affect community health and resilience, particularly in coastal regions of the southeastern United States. Her lab also investigates the role of airborne metals and fine particulate matter in contributing to neurodegeneration and dementia. By leveraging interdisciplinary methods, the lab aims to provide insights that can inform public health strategies and interventions for vulnerable communities.
Igor Sokolov — Igor Sokolov's lab at Tufts University focuses on developing noninvasive diagnostic techniques for bladder cancer using advanced imaging and machine learning. The lab aims to create a test that analyzes the physical characteristics of individual cells from urine samples, potentially improving cancer detection and patient comfort by reducing the need for invasive procedures. This research seeks to enhance early detection methods not only for bladder cancer but also for other cancers that can be diagnosed through bodily fluids.
Sam R Telford — Dr. Sam R Telford's lab focuses on enhancing biosafety and biocontainment in research related to infectious diseases. The team trains staff in advanced technical skills required for working with dangerous pathogens and develops resources to enable rapid responses to emerging health threats, such as pandemics. By fostering collaboration with academic and industry partners, the lab aims to improve regional preparedness in managing public health challenges.
Alexander Poltorak — Dr. Alexander Poltorak's lab at Tufts University studies how the body responds to bacterial infections, specifically focusing on a protein called ZBP1. They explore how ZBP1 influences cell death and inflammation in response to lipopolysaccharides (LPS), which are components of bacterial cell membranes. Their research aims to uncover new pathways in the immune response and identify potential therapeutic targets to improve treatments for infections.
Harry P. Selker — Dr. Harry P. Selker leads the Tufts Clinical and Translational Science Institute, which focuses on enhancing clinical research and improving public health through innovative team science. The lab works with various partners to train new researchers, develop groundbreaking methods, and foster collaboration throughout the research continuum. Their ultimate goal is to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical health solutions.
Cheryl A London — Dr. Cheryl A. London's lab at Tufts University focuses on improving cancer therapies through innovative research involving dogs. The lab works on enhancing the immune response in canine osteosarcoma by activating dendritic cells and also investigates clonal hematopoiesis in dogs to understand its implications for cancer treatment. Through clinical trials and the study of immune responses, the research aims to translate findings from canine models to improve human cancer therapies.
Xudong Li — Dr. Xudong Li's research lab focuses on understanding how certain cellular processes affect the function and fitness of regulatory T cells, which are essential for maintaining a healthy immune response. The lab particularly investigates the role of heme synthesis, an important biological process, in controlling these T cells' abilities to prevent autoimmune diseases. By studying the effects of a specific enzyme on Treg cells, the goal is to develop new therapies that could enhance the body's natural defenses against autoimmune disorders.
Sergei Mirkin — Dr. Sergei Mirkin's lab at Tufts University investigates how certain DNA structures, specifically repeating sequences, can lead to genetic disorders and cancers. His research focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind repeat expansions that cause over fifty hereditary diseases, including various neurodegenerative disorders. By uncovering these mechanisms, the lab aims to contribute valuable insights into both basic biology and potential medical treatments.