Benjamin Terry — Dr. Benjamin Terry's lab at Brigham Young University focuses on developing new technologies for treating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). They are working on a unique tethered capsule that can be precisely placed in the gastrointestinal tract to monitor the condition and deliver medication directly where it is needed. This research aims to improve patient care by making treatments more effective and less invasive, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for individuals with IBD.
Jeffery Sivert Tessem — Dr. Jeffery Sivert Tessem's lab focuses on understanding how specific proteins can increase the mass of functional insulin-producing beta cells, which is crucial in treating diabetes. By studying the role of a protein called Nr4a1, the lab aims to discover new ways to enhance beta cell function and proliferation, potentially leading to better therapies for individuals with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Their research could help address significant health challenges related to diabetes management.
Kara Mcrae Duraccio — Dr. Kara Mcrae Duraccio's lab at Brigham Young University focuses on understanding how disturbances in sleep can contribute to obesity risk. By employing advanced neuroimaging techniques alongside sleep assessment methods, the team aims to uncover the mechanisms linking sleep quality with obesity outcomes. This research not only delves into how specific brain regions are affected by sleep but also involves undergraduate students in hands-on biomedical research, promoting education and training in the field.