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Zhen Huang — Dr. Zhen Huang's lab focuses on advancing the diagnosis and treatment evaluation of tuberculosis (TB) using innovative techniques. The lab has developed a novel CRISPR-based assay that can detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis-derived DNA in blood samples, offering a new way to diagnose active and drug-resistant TB cases. This research aims to improve TB management, particularly in areas with high disease burden where traditional diagnostic methods are inadequate.
Shusheng Wang — Dr. Shusheng Wang's lab at Tulane University focuses on studying the effects of aging and cigarette smoke on the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and its role in age-related macular degeneration (AMD). They investigate how mitochondrial dysfunction induced by these factors can lead to different RPE phenotypes, potentially contributing to the disease. The lab aims to understand the mechanisms driving this heterogeneity and to identify potential therapeutic targets for treating dry AMD.
Christopher J Lyon — Dr. Christopher J Lyon's lab focuses on improving the diagnosis and management of tuberculosis (TB) in children, particularly those under five years old. The lab is developing a novel blood-based assay that detects proteins from the TB pathogen and the host's immune response using advanced immunoassay technology. By leveraging accessible diagnostic methods, the research aims to enhance the sensitivity and accuracy of TB detection in pediatric patients, especially in resource-limited settings.
Wenke Feng — Dr. Wenke Feng's lab at Tulane University focuses on understanding how gut-derived substances, especially from probiotics, influence liver health in the context of alcohol-associated liver diseases. The research explores the role of specific molecules in regulating bile acid and lipid synthesis, aiming to find new therapeutic strategies for better managing liver diseases associated with alcohol consumption.
Jay Rappaport — Dr. Jay Rappaport's lab at Tulane University focuses on studying aging in nonhuman primates to better understand lifespan differences and aging mechanisms. They are part of a network of primate research centers that aims to collect and analyze data to improve health and longevity insights that can also benefit humans. Furthermore, the lab promotes collaboration and data sharing among scientists, enhancing educational practices within the field of gerosciences.
Xuebin Qin — Dr. Xuebin Qin's research focuses on understanding the roles of renal macrophages and the complement system in kidney diseases and severe COVID-19. In particular, they are studying how signaling pathways affect the behavior and longevity of renal macrophages, which are critical for kidney health. The lab also investigates how the complement system contributes to blood vessel damage during severe COVID-19 and explores potential therapies to mitigate these effects.
De'Broski R Herbert — Dr. De'Broski R. Herbert's lab focuses on the interaction between sensory nerves in the skin and immune responses to parasitic worms that penetrate the skin. They study how specific neurons can help protect against these infections and how immune cells react to the urinary toxins produced by these worms. Understanding this relationship could lead to new ways to prevent infections caused by these parasites.
Yan Dong — Dr. Yan Dong's lab at Tulane University focuses on understanding how prostate cancer develops resistance to hormone therapies by studying the role of RNA-binding proteins, particularly the androgen receptor (AR). The lab explores innovative approaches to target AR's RNA interactions, which could lead to new treatment strategies for prostate cancer patients. By shedding light on the mechanisms that contribute to cancer progression, this research aims to improve therapeutic outcomes for those affected by prostate cancer.
Jia Long Zhuo — Dr. Jia Long Zhuo’s lab at Tulane University studies the mechanisms behind high blood pressure and kidney injury, focusing on a specific mitochondrial protein called Sirtuin 3. Their research aims to understand the role of Sirtuin 3 in regulating blood pressure and protecting the kidneys from damage caused by conditions like hypertension. By working with unique mouse models, the lab hopes to uncover how targeting Sirtuin 3 could lead to new treatments for hypertension and related kidney issues.