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Nissim Hay — Dr. Nissim Hay's lab at the University of Illinois at Chicago focuses on understanding the role of Hexokinase 2 (HK2) in liver fibrosis and liver cancer. The lab investigates how HK2 contributes to the metabolic changes in liver cells during disease and looks for ways to leverage this knowledge for new treatments. Additionally, they explore HK2's role in cancer cell metabolism and its potential as a therapeutic target in various cancers.
Huan-Xiang Zhou — Dr. Huan-Xiang Zhou's lab at the University of Illinois at Chicago focuses on studying the interactions between biomolecules, particularly how certain proteins and DNA interact and behave. This research aims to uncover fundamental principles of molecular recognition, which is crucial in many biological processes, and has potential applications in drug design and therapy development. The lab combines experimental and computational techniques to gain insights into biomolecular properties and behaviors inside cells.
Jan K. Kitajewski — Dr. Jan K. Kitajewski's research lab focuses on understanding how specific signaling pathways influence the formation of blood vessels, a process known as angiogenesis. By investigating the roles of different Notch proteins, particularly Notch4, in vascular biology, the lab aims to uncover new therapeutic strategies to treat conditions like cancer and eye diseases associated with excessive blood vessel growth. The research combines advanced molecular techniques with studies in animal models to explore the implications of these pathways in both healthy and diseased states.
Jalees Rehman — Dr. Jalees Rehman's lab at the University of Illinois at Chicago focuses on understanding the interactions between pathogens and the immune system, particularly in the context of diseases like Alzheimer's and lung injuries. The lab investigates how infections can lead to cellular aging and inflammation, impacts on the blood-brain barrier in Alzheimer's patients, and utilizes advanced human organoid models to study lung disease and repair mechanisms. Their work aims to find new therapeutic targets for preventing and treating these conditions.
Alexander S Mankin — Dr. Alexander S. Mankin's lab at the University of Illinois at Chicago focuses on understanding and enhancing antibacterial peptides produced by honeybees and fruit flies. These peptides, known for their ability to inhibit bacterial growth by stopping protein synthesis, hold potential for developing new antibiotics. The lab employs various techniques to explore how these peptides work and to create more effective derivatives.
Dolly Mehta — Dr. Dolly Mehta's lab at the University of Illinois at Chicago focuses on understanding and treating acute lung injuries, which are often caused by infections. The research examines how certain cells in the lungs, particularly macrophages and endothelial cells, behave during inflammation and injury. By studying these cells' mechanisms, the lab aims to develop targeted therapies that protect lung function and promote healing during acute respiratory distress syndrome.
Xiaoping Du — Dr. Xiaoping Du's lab at the University of Illinois At Chicago focuses on understanding how specific proteins called integrins signal cells to trigger blood clotting and inflammation. The research aims to develop new medications that can prevent harmful blood clots without causing serious bleeding, addressing a critical need in treating conditions like heart attacks and strokes. By investigating these mechanisms, the lab seeks to create safer dual-action therapies for thrombotic and inflammatory diseases.
Susan R Ross — Dr. Susan R. Ross's lab at the University of Illinois at Chicago focuses on understanding how mammals' immune responses can limit retroviral infections, such as those caused by murine leukemia virus (MLV). The research explores the mechanisms by which host proteins, particularly the APOBEC3 family, interact with viral processes like reverse transcription, to help inform potential therapies for curing or preventing diseases caused by HIV and other retroviruses. This is achieved through innovative mouse models and advanced molecular techniques.
Shilpa Sant — Dr. Shilpa Sant's lab focuses on understanding how specific components within the breast cancer microenvironment can influence tumor growth and metastasis. By using engineered mineralized hydrogels that mimic the soft tissue environment of the breast, the research aims to explore the role of microcalcifications in the development and progression of breast cancer. The findings may help identify new treatment strategies and biomarkers that could improve patient outcomes.