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Li Zhang — The lab led by Dr. Li Zhang focuses on understanding the role of a specific protein, integrin CD11b, in the regression of atherosclerosis, a condition that causes artery hardening and narrowing, leading to cardiovascular diseases. Their research aims to develop new therapeutic strategies to promote the regression of atherosclerotic plaques by investigating the interactions between CD11b, cholesterol transport proteins, and inflammation in macrophages. This work is important for designing more effective treatments that could lower healthcare costs associated with cardiovascular diseases.
James B Kaper — Dr. James B. Kaper's lab at the University of Maryland Baltimore focuses on understanding how certain strains of E. coli and Shigella bacteria cause diarrhea. Using advanced models that mimic the human intestine, the lab studies the interactions between these pathogens and the immune system. By creating mini-intestines and incorporating immune cells, they aim to unravel the mechanisms of infection and explore potential treatments and vaccines.
Margaret M. Mccarthy — Dr. Margaret M. McCarthy's lab studies how inflammation in the brain during development affects mental health, particularly in males. By investigating the different populations of mast cells in the brain, the lab seeks to understand their roles during critical periods of brain development and how they interact with other brain cells. This research aims to identify new ways to prevent or treat neurodevelopmental disorders, especially those linked to early life inflammation.
Min Yu — The lab of Min Yu at the University of Maryland Baltimore focuses on understanding how estrogen receptor mutations in breast cancer cells contribute to the disease's progression and metastasis. They study the role of androgen receptors, particularly how they help cancer cells survive during stressful conditions like treatment with aromatase inhibitors. The ultimate goal is to identify new therapeutic strategies for metastatic breast cancer, which is a major challenge for patients.
Martin F Flajnik — Dr. Martin Flajnik's lab focuses on understanding the evolution and function of the immune system, particularly how it has developed over millions of years. By studying sharks, which possess unique immune molecules, the lab aims to uncover foundational principles of immunity that may also apply to humans. The research combines biochemistry, structural biology, and immunological techniques to explore how these ancient immune components operate and their implications for human health.
Linda Chang — Dr. Linda Chang's lab at the University of Maryland Baltimore focuses on developing innovative treatment strategies for HIV, especially in patients with substance use disorders. The lab explores the use of MR-guided focused ultrasound technology to temporarily open the blood-brain barrier, allowing targeted delivery of HIV treatments like antiretroviral therapy and CRISPR gene editing. The ultimate goal is to eliminate HIV reservoirs in the brain and improve outcomes for those affected by HIV-associated cognitive disorders.
Mariusz Karbowski — Dr. Mariusz Karbowski's lab at the University of Maryland Baltimore explores how mitochondria and peroxisomes interact at the cellular level, particularly through a specific protein called MARCH5. The research aims to understand the mechanisms of energy metabolism and how these organelles respond to dysfunction. This work is vital for developing new treatments for diseases associated with mitochondrial and peroxisomal malfunctions, especially as the population ages.
Mary Kay Lobo — Dr. Mary Kay Lobo's lab at the University of Maryland Baltimore focuses on understanding the neurological impacts of substance abuse, particularly the effects of perinatal opioid exposure and cocaine addiction. By using mouse models, her research investigates how these substances alter brain circuitry and behavior, aiming to uncover the underlying cellular and molecular changes that lead to long-term psychological issues. This research is crucial for developing effective treatments for individuals affected by substance use disorders and neurodevelopmental problems arising from opioid exposure during pregnancy.
Lishan Su — Dr. Lishan Su's lab at the University of Maryland Baltimore focuses on understanding how specific immune cells, known as tumor-associated plasmacytoid dendritic cells, interact with liver cancer in patients with HIV. The lab aims to investigate how these cells may affect the growth of liver tumors and the immune response during immunotherapy treatments. The goal is to develop new therapeutic strategies that can be particularly beneficial for HIV-infected individuals suffering from liver cancer.