Frank Porreca — Dr. Frank Porreca's research lab focuses on understanding the brain circuits involved in migraine pain, a common and debilitating condition. The lab investigates how specific pathways and neuron types contribute to pain perception during migraine attacks, aiming to develop better treatments for patients who do not respond adequately to existing therapies. Through various advanced techniques, the lab explores both the genetic and physiological aspects of migraine to uncover new therapeutic targets.
Xinglong Wang — Dr. Xinglong Wang's research lab at the University of Arizona focuses on understanding how the TDP-43 protein contributes to neurodegenerative diseases like ALS and Alzheimer's disease. By studying the interactions between TDP-43 and mitochondria, the lab investigates how changes in TDP-43 behavior might lead to neuron damage. This research aims to uncover critical mechanisms that could potentially reveal new therapies for these debilitating conditions.
Yin Chen — Dr. Yin Chen's lab at the University of Arizona focuses on understanding how our immune system responds to Coccidioides, the fungus responsible for Valley Fever. With cases of this serious infection rising, the lab studies how special proteins in our lungs can fight off this pathogen, even in healthy individuals. By exploring these mechanisms, their research aims to find new ways to treat and prevent this disease, which poses a significant health risk.
Rachna Shroff — The research lab led by Dr. Rachna Shroff at the University of Arizona focuses on enhancing cancer clinical research, especially for underrepresented populations like Hispanics and Native Americans. The lab aims to develop a comprehensive clinical trials navigation program, making cancer trials more accessible and inclusive. By expanding the reach of the Arizona Clinical Trials Network, the lab seeks to improve participation in cancer trials and advance drug development in oncology.
Henk L. Granzier — Dr. Henk Granzier's lab at the University of Arizona focuses on the giant protein titin and its role in muscle function and stiffness regulation. They investigate how titin interacts with muscle filaments during contraction and how mutations in this protein can lead to muscle diseases. By using mouse models and various experimental techniques, the lab aims to deepen our understanding of muscle mechanics, which could pave the way for new therapies for muscle-related conditions.
Hongmin Li — Dr. Hongmin Li's lab focuses on developing new antiviral drugs specifically targeting flaviviruses, which are viruses transmitted by insects like mosquitoes and are known to cause serious illnesses in humans. The lab investigates essential viral enzymes to find compounds that can inhibit the viruses' ability to replicate and evade the immune system. Through advanced techniques in medicinal chemistry and biochemistry, the lab aims to create effective treatments for infections such as dengue and Japanese encephalitis.
Mingyu Liang — Dr. Mingyu Liang's lab at the University of Arizona focuses on understanding the genetic and epigenetic factors behind chronic kidney disease. They are developing a unique set of human stem cell models to investigate how specific genetic variations influence kidney function. This research aims to create valuable resources for scientists studying kidney disease and to help develop targeted therapies.
Deepta Bhattacharya — Dr. Deepta Bhattacharya's research lab focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms behind antibody responses and immunity. They investigate how specific metabolic pathways influence the lifespan and function of plasma cells, which are crucial for long-term immune protection. By using advanced genetic tools and various experimental models, the lab aims to uncover the cellular and metabolic factors that determine how long antibodies remain effective after vaccination or infection.
Xinxin Ding — Dr. Xinxin Ding's lab at the University of Arizona studies the harmful effects of naphthalene, a common pollutant found in smoke and vehicle exhaust, particularly focusing on how it can cause lung damage and cancer. The lab investigates how naphthalene is processed in the body, especially in the liver, and how these processes lead to toxic effects in the lungs. Their work aims to better understand the risk factors associated with exposure to this chemical and to find ways to monitor its effects on human health.