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.
Levitt, Pat
The research projects are driven by a talented group of postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, research staff and collaborating faculty. Our laboratory is unique in undertaking both basic and clinical research projects. Research projects investigate the development of brain architecture underlying emotional and social behavior and learning, the challenges that arise when neurodevelopment is derailed, and determining why brain and certain medical disorders often co-occur in children. The basic science projects are focused how genes and prenatal and early postnatal environments together influence typical and atypical development. The clinical research projects focus on understanding the impact of early experiences, positive (social connectedness) and negative (early life adversities - neglect/abuse) on healthy brain and child development and the impact on metabolic health.
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.
Longo, Valter
Professor of Gerontology and Biological Sciences
WE are interested in the biology of aging and neurodegenerative diseases including Parkinson and Alzheimer. Our focus is on the connection between systemic dysfunction and aging and cognitive decline. One of our ongoing questions is how do aging and insulin resistance accelerate brain aging and Alzheimer's disease, with focus on neuroinflammation
