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Se-Jin Lee — Dr. Se-Jin Lee's lab focuses on understanding how certain proteins regulate bone density and muscle growth. By using genetic and biochemical techniques, the team investigates complex signaling pathways, aiming to develop clinical strategies to treat conditions like bone loss and muscle wasting. The lab's work could lead to new therapies that enhance bone strength and improve muscle function.
Zhao-Wen Wang — Dr. Zhao-Wen Wang's lab at the University of Connecticut focuses on understanding how certain proteins interact with potassium channels to affect sleep and neurotransmitter release. Their research utilizes a model organism, C. elegans, to uncover how a specific type of potassium channel, called the BK channel, works in the nervous system. They explore the role of melatonin in this process, aiming to reveal important cellular pathways that could impact our understanding of sleep regulation and related disorders.
Kenneth R. Pugh — Dr. Kenneth R. Pugh's lab focuses on understanding how the brain changes during reading instruction, particularly for children who struggle with reading. By using advanced imaging techniques, the lab investigates which neurobiological factors contribute to successful learning outcomes and why some children do not respond well to traditional reading interventions. Their research aims to improve educational strategies by tailoring them to the individual neurocognitive profiles of children.
Riqiang Yan — Dr. Riqiang Yan's lab focuses on understanding the role of the enzyme BACE1 in Alzheimer's disease, particularly how inhibiting this enzyme in glial cells might help reduce harmful amyloid and tau pathologies in the brain. The lab conducts experiments using transgenic mouse models to explore innovative treatments that enhance the immune response of microglia, which are crucial for clearing out these toxic substances. The ultimate goal is to develop safer therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's patients.
Stephen M King — Dr. Stephen M. King's lab at the University of Connecticut focuses on the biology of motile cilia, which are tiny hair-like structures that help cells move and communicate. They conduct research using the green alga Chlamydomonas to understand how cilia are formed, how they beat, and how they release signals that affect other cells. The lab aims to discover new mechanisms involved in ciliary movement and the role of peptide signals in cell interactions, which are important for proper human development and health.
Lixia Yue — Dr. Lixia Yue's lab at the University of Connecticut focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind cardiac fibrosis, a condition that contributes to various heart diseases. By investigating a specific ion channel called TRPM7 in cardiac fibroblasts, the lab aims to explore therapeutic targets for improving treatment options for heart failure. The research combines molecular biology with advanced animal models to uncover how signaling pathways influence heart health.
Penghua Wang — Dr. Penghua Wang's lab focuses on understanding the role of non-canonical inflammasomes in the immune response, particularly during infections that can lead to severe illnesses like sepsis. By studying how specific proteins, such as UBXN1, regulate inflammation, the lab aims to uncover new pathways that could lead to better treatments for sepsis and related inflammatory diseases.
Amy A Gorin — Dr. Amy A Gorin's lab focuses on developing and optimizing mobile health (mHealth) interventions aimed at weight management for couples. Recognizing that weight issues often affect both partners in a relationship, the lab's research emphasizes a collaborative approach to encourage successful behavior changes. The team employs innovative techniques, grounded in social psychology, to test various strategies that can effectively support couples on their weight loss journey.
Beiyan Zhou — Dr. Beiyan Zhou's lab focuses on understanding how type 2 diabetes (T2DM) increases the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). By using innovative computational programs and biological tools, the lab investigates the mechanisms that lead to elevated ASCVD risk in T2DM patients. The goal is to develop predictive models and potential treatment options that can better manage ASCVD risks in individuals with T2DM.