Anjali Sharma — Dr. Anjali Sharma's lab at Washington State University focuses on creating innovative drug delivery systems for treating brain injuries and neurological disorders. The research aims to develop nanomedicine technologies that can cross the blood-brain barrier and selectively deliver therapeutic agents to neurons affected by injury. By leveraging a specialized nanoplatform, the lab seeks to enhance drug efficacy while minimizing side effects, which could significantly improve treatment outcomes.
Maria A. Gartstein — Dr. Maria A. Gartstein's research lab focuses on understanding how early life experiences and brain development contribute to anxiety disorders. Through the study of infants' fear responses and the impact of maternal sensitivity, the lab aims to uncover the neurophysiological markers associated with anxiety. By examining how brain activation patterns and behavioral changes interact during infancy, the lab seeks to inform preventive strategies for anxiety disorders later in life.
M Kariuki Njenga — Dr. Kariuki Njenga's lab focuses on enhancing public health research in Kenya through collaboration with local and international institutions. The lab aims to develop a sustainable research platform that improves the management and efficacy of health research initiatives, particularly in areas such as infectious diseases and public health systems. Their work includes training local scientists and implementing innovative management practices to strengthen healthcare research capacity.
Ryan Joseph Mclaughlin — Dr. Ryan McLaughlin's lab focuses on how maternal cannabis use during pregnancy affects the brain development and cognitive abilities of offspring. Using a unique animal model, the lab investigates the neurobiological mechanisms behind cognitive inflexibility caused by prenatal cannabis exposure. The research aims to understand the long-term impacts of cannabis on decision-making processes and explore potential interventions to mitigate these effects.
Salah-Uddin Ahmed — Dr. Salah-Uddin Ahmed's lab at Washington State University focuses on understanding the role of a protein called TAK1 in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). They study how TAK1 contributes to the inflammatory and invasive behaviors of synovial fibroblasts, which play a key role in RA pathology. The lab aims to develop targeted therapies using TAK1 inhibitors to improve treatment outcomes for patients suffering from this chronic disease.
Suzanne M Appleyard — Dr. Suzanne M. Appleyard's lab at Washington State University researches how specific neurons in the brainstem manage food intake, particularly in the context of obesity. They study how certain neurotransmitters influence eating behavior and how these mechanisms are affected by factors such as fasting and diet. Their work aims to uncover intricate neuronal circuits that could lead to better solutions for obesity and related health issues.
Jessica L Fales — Dr. Jessica L Fales research focuses on understanding how peer relationships impact chronic pain in adolescents. She studies how experiences like social exclusion and support can influence the persistence of pain and disability among youth. By examining both the negative and positive aspects of peer interactions, her work aims to improve prevention and intervention strategies to support adolescents at risk for chronic pain.