Kay, Steve A.
Our laboratory studies the construction and dynamics of complex genetic networks that underlie circadian rhythms in humans, animals and plants. We also develop and use cutting-edge technologies for measuring transcription in live cells, tissues and intact organisms. We use large scale datasets of gene expression or protein content combined with genetics, bioinformatics and computational tools (mathematical modeling), chemical screens and more conventional biochemical approaches. Ultimately our aim is to scale our understanding of the dynamics of circadian clocks from the systems level down to atomic resolution mechanism. We have a strong commitment to translation of our research, in the case of humans for novel cancer drug discovery. We are currently focussing on targeting clock proteins in glioblastoma stem cells, in order to develop novel therapeutics.
Lee, Changhan David
Associate Professor of Gerontology
The Lee Lab investigates how metabolism regulates aging and age-related diseases, including Alzheimer’s, with a focus on mitochondrial communication. Traditionally viewed as end-stage organelles, mitochondria are now recognized as active signaling hubs. We study newly discovered bioactive microproteins encoded in the mitochondrial genome—particularly within the 12S rRNA region—that act as innate signals influencing cell and organismal physiology. These microproteins function both within and between cells and may serve as mitochondrial longevity genes and therapeutic targets. Our work bridges molecular biology and whole-organism physiology to uncover how mitochondria influence aging from within. Students interested in metabolism, mitochondrial biology, and translational aging research will find rich opportunities here.
Lee, Sun Young
Associate Professor of Ophthalmology and Physiology and Neuroscience
LeeRetinaLab investigates the pathobiology of age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy, with a focus on developing extracellular vesicle (EV)-based therapeutics. Our team has expertise in small EV (sEV) isolation, characterization, and bioengineering, and we regularly work with relevant animal models. To optimize sEV-based intraocular therapies, we apply both conventional and advanced technologies, including single-particle analysis, nano-flow cytometry, digital PCR, cryo-EM, and multi-omics approaches (transcriptomics, proteomics, lipidomics, and metabolomics). We take a multidisciplinary approach and collaborate closely with experts in bioengineering, regenerative medicine, and gene therapy to accelerate translational outcomes and therapeutic innovation in retinal disease research.
Liman, Emily
Harold W. Dornsife Chair in Neuroscience and Professor of Biological Sciences
The Liman lab studies how ion channels enable sensory cells to convert chemical and mechanical cues into electrical signals. We discovered the Otopetrin (OTOP) family of proton-selective ion channels and showed that OTOP1 is the long-sought sour-taste receptor as well as a detector of ammonium. Using patch-clamp electrophysiology, structure-guided mutagenesis, cryo-EM, and in vivo genetics we aim to reveal how protons permeate OTOP pores, how gating is tuned by pH and lipids, and how channel activity shapes taste, balance, and metabolic physiology. Ongoing projects extend these questions to other OTOP isoforms combining medium-throughput screening with computational modeling to identify first-in-class modulators and mouse genetics to identify and manipulate cells that express OTOP channels. Students gain rigorous cross-disciplinary training in membrane biophysics and sensory neuroscience while working in a collaborative, inclusive environment.
Lyden, Patrick
Professor of Physiology and Neuroscience and Neurology
The Lyden lab has been funded by NIH, VA and AHA for over 30 years. The lab is focused on translational pre-clinical stroke modeling, pharmacology, and vascular biology. The lab has considerable experience with a variety of animal models; behavioral testing; histology; and cell biology. The lab was selected by NINDS to develop and manage the Stroke Preclinical Assessment Network (SPAN) as the Coordinating Center. Current projects include studies to determine the mechanisms of differential vulnerability in the neurovascular unit; effects of microglial activation on neuronal survival; and blood brain barrier disruption during stroke and mild traumatic brain injury.
Mack, William
Professor of Neurological Surgery (Clinical Scholar)
Dr. Mack is the Principal Investigator and Director of the Cerebrovascular Laboratory in the Zilkha Neurogenetic Institute. His overarching academic goal is to examine the effects of inflammation in experimental models of cerebrovascular disease.
