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Job Dekker — The research lab of Job Dekker at the University of Massachusetts Medical School focuses on understanding how the human genome is organized and regulated. His team investigates how the three-dimensional structure of chromosomes affects gene expression and stability, and how defects in this organization can lead to diseases such as cancer. By employing cutting-edge genomic technologies, they explore the molecular mechanisms that facilitate proper chromosome folding and segregation during the cell cycle.
Zhiping Weng — Dr. Zhiping Weng's lab focuses on understanding how genetic variants affect health and disease by leveraging advanced computational and statistical methods. The team is involved in large-scale NIH initiatives that aim to coordinate data analysis from diverse populations and create accessible databases. Their work helps improve our understanding of genetic variation, which can lead to better treatment options and preventive measures for various diseases.
Leslie M Shaw — Dr. Leslie Shaw's lab focuses on the role of a specific protein, IRS2, in regulating cell division in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). The lab aims to understand how IRS2 contributes to cancer development and to explore new therapeutic strategies to combat this aggressive cancer subtype by targeting its unique vulnerabilities during cell division. Through their research, they hope to develop more effective treatments for patients with TNBC.
A. M. Barrett — Dr. A. M. Barrett's lab focuses on understanding how medication self-administration (MSA) can indicate early signs of cognitive impairment, including Alzheimer's Disease. By studying individuals in the Framingham Heart Study, the lab aims to link errors in medication management and self-assessment of these abilities to cognitive decline and brain health. Their research has significant implications for improving caregiving practices and adjusting healthcare approaches for the aging population.
Victor Ambros — Dr. Victor Ambros's lab focuses on how genetic networks control when and how an organism develops. They study tiny worms, like C. elegans, to understand the role of microRNAs in helping these organisms adapt to stresses during their growth. Their research also explores how certain worms can regenerate their bodies, offering insights into the biology of regeneration across species.
Eric H Baehrecke — Eric H Baehrecke's lab at the University of Massachusetts Medical School studies the process of autophagy, which is how cells recycle and dispose of cellular waste. The research focuses on understanding how autophagy is regulated during the development of the fruit fly (Drosophila), providing insights that could help us understand similar processes in humans and how they are linked to diseases like cancer and neurodegeneration. By studying autophagy in specific cell types in the intestines, the lab aims to uncover how different cellular components are selected for degradation, which could lead to new therapeutic strategies for human health.
Kenneth L Rock — The lab led by Dr. Kenneth L Rock studies how the immune system responds to cell injury and death, focusing particularly on histones - molecules released when cells die. By identifying novel receptors that detect these histones, the lab aims to understand their role in triggering inflammation and how this relates to various diseases such as strokes and infections. Their findings could help develop new treatments to prevent or treat related health issues.
Guangping Gao — Dr. Guangping Gao's lab focuses on developing targeted gene therapies to treat rare neurological disorders, specifically those affecting oligodendrocytes, which are crucial for healthy brain function. Their research primarily addresses conditions like Canavan disease and other leukodystrophies, employing innovative adeno-associated virus (AAV) strategies to improve the safety and effectiveness of gene therapy in these diseases. By understanding how AAV interacts with oligodendrocytes, the lab aims to enhance gene delivery systems tailored to these specific cell types.
Michael P Czech — Dr. Michael Czech's lab focuses on understanding how certain fat cells, called beige adipocytes, can improve metabolic health in conditions like obesity and diabetes. They use advanced CRISPR technology to convert regular fat cells into beige adipocytes, which can help in weight loss and improve body metabolism. The lab's research aims to discover the underlying mechanisms that allow these fat cells to help the body utilize energy better and combat fat accumulation in the liver.