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Qing-Song Liu — Dr. Qing-Song Liu's lab focuses on understanding how a protein called mTOR affects the behavior and function of dopamine neurons in the brain. They investigate how changes in mTOR signaling can lead to problems like hyperactivity and impulsivity, which are seen in disorders such as ADHD. Using specially designed mice, the lab seeks to uncover the cellular and circuit-level mechanisms behind these behaviors, aiming to inform future treatments for related psychiatric conditions.
Allen W Cowley — Dr. Allen W. Cowley's lab investigates how a high-salt diet influences kidney health and metabolic processes, especially in individuals who are sensitive to salt. They focus on understanding the differences between salt-sensitive and salt-resistant rat models to identify potential therapeutic targets for hypertension and kidney injury. This research is significant given the widespread prevalence of salt-sensitive hypertension and its implications for cardiovascular health.
Anne E. Kwitek — Anne E. Kwitek's lab focuses on the Rat Genome Database, which is a comprehensive resource for genomic data connected to rat models of human diseases. The lab aims to integrate various types of genetic and biological data to enhance understanding of complex diseases that affect humans. By collaborating with other labs and institutions, they work on developing new genomic resources and tools to facilitate research that can bridge the knowledge gaps between rat studies and human health.
Brian F Volkman — Dr. Brian Volkman’s lab at the Medical College of Wisconsin focuses on understanding the protein interactions and signaling mechanisms involved in chronic pancreatitis and the evolution of metamorphic proteins. His team investigates how specific chemokines like CCL28 influence inflammation in the pancreas, potentially leading to cancer, and develops new proteins that can switch their structure to perform different functions. The ultimate goal is to identify novel therapies that could mitigate chronic inflammation and improve treatments for pancreatic diseases.
Cheryl Louise Stucky — Dr. Cheryl Louise Stucky's lab focuses on understanding the complex pain mechanisms associated with sickle cell disease. The research aims to identify how certain molecules, like free heme and the cytokine TNF, contribute to both acute and chronic pain in sickle cell patients. By investigating these pain pathways, the lab hopes to develop better pain management strategies that could help reduce reliance on opioids, leading to safer treatments.
John D Mccorvy — Dr. John D Mccorvy's lab focuses on exploring the pharmacological potential of psychedelics, particularly their effects on mental health disorders like depression. By designing and developing new chemical probes specifically targeting serotonin receptors, the lab aims to differentiate between the therapeutic effects and the psychedelic experiences, paving the way for innovative treatments in psychiatry. Their research combines both structure-based drug design and an in-depth understanding of signaling pathways related to serotonin receptors.
Peter S Laviolette — Dr. Peter Laviolette's lab focuses on improving the diagnosis and treatment of gliomas, a type of brain tumor, by developing innovative imaging techniques. The research combines advanced mapping algorithms with MRI scans to better detect cancerous cells that are not easily visible. This work aims to refine treatment strategies and enhance patient outcomes through personalized therapy approaches and comprehensive tracking of tumor progression.
Brian A Link — Dr. Brian A Link's lab at the Medical College of Wisconsin focuses on the cellular mechanisms involved in retinal health, particularly related to Usher syndrome type 1B. The lab investigates the MYO7A gene and its variants, which are linked to progressive retinal degeneration and other sensory deficits. By using various models including zebrafish and mutant mice, the research aims to understand how MYO7A mutations affect cell junctions in the retina, with the goal of informing future gene therapies.
Xue-Zhong Yu — Dr. Xue-Zhong Yu's lab focuses on understanding the immune responses in the context of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) and cancer immunotherapy. They investigate the role of cytokines like IL-39 in GVHD and explore how manipulating certain kinases can improve anti-tumor immunity. Additionally, they look into the effects of the gut microbiome and probiotics on GVHD, aiming to enhance patient outcomes after hematopoietic cell transplantation.