The Lau Lab uses a combination of computational and experimental approaches to study the atomic... and molecular details governing the function of protein complexes involved in intercellular communication. We study ionotropic glutamate receptors (iGluRs), which are ligand-gated ion channels that mediate the majority of excitatory synaptic transmission in the central nervous system. iGluRs are important in synaptic plasticity, which underlies learning and memory. Receptor dysfunction has been implicated in a number of neurological disorders. view more

Research in the Alex Kolodkin Laboratory is focused on understanding how neuronal connectivity ...is established during development. Our work investigates the function of extrinsic guidance cues and their receptors on axonal guidance, dendritic morphology and synapse formation and function. We have investigated how neural circuits are formed and maintained through the action of guidance cues that include semaphorin proteins, their classical plexin and neuropilin receptors, and also novel receptors. We employ a cross-phylogenetic approach, using both invertebrate and vertebrate model systems, to understand how guidance cues regulate neuronal pathfinding, morphology and synaptogenesis. We also seek to understand how these signals are transduced to cytosolic effectors. Though broad in scope, our interrogation of the roles played by semaphorin guidance cues provides insight into the regulation of neural circuit assembly and function. Our current work includes a relatively new interest in understanding the origins of laminar organization in the central nervous system. view more

The Aliaksei Pustavoitau Lab conducts research on models and mechanisms of impaired consciousne...ss in patients who have suffered acute brain injury. Examples of our work include a study on the mechanisms of neurologic failure in critical illness and another on the use of intensivist-driven ultrasound at the PICU bedside. We also have a longstanding interest in patient safety and quality of care in the ICU setting. view more

Research in the Alicia Arbaje Lab aims to help older adults maintain dignity and quality of lif...e as they age. We are particularly interested in creating health care systems to improve safety and outcomes for older adults. view more

The Aline Charabaty Lab performs clinical research on Inflammatory Bowel Disorder.

Research in the Alison E. Turnbull Lab focuses on patient-clinician interactions. We study deci...sion-making processes for ICU patients and their families and focus on the long-term outcomes of ICU survivors. Additional research examines ways to improve end-of-life care for patients. view more

Research in the Alison Miles Lab focuses on moral distress among pediatric intensive care unit ...(PICU) clinicians. We have interviewed practitioners involved in the long-term care of patients in the PICU from two months to two years. By identifying the challenges of these cases and what was learned, we hope to develop more effective stress-management strategies for providers. Providers who have less stress are better equipped to care for patients, including those living with chronic diseases. Our team hopes to ultimately improve the field of pediatric palliative care for patients, families and care providers. view more

The Alison Moliterno Lab studies the molecular pathogenesis of myeloproliferative disorders (MP...Ds), including polycythemia vera, essential thrombocytosis and idiopathic myelofibrosis. Our research is focused on the genetic and epigenetic lesions associated with MPDs, with the goal of improving diagnosis and treatment for these disorders. view more

The Allan Gelber Lab conducts research on the clinical epidemiology of rheumatic disorders. Our... recent studies have explored topics that include the predicting factors of prevalent and incident gout; cardiovascular disease burden and risk in patients with rheumatoid arthritis; autoantibodies in both primary and secondary SjogrenÕs syndrome; and predictors of outcomes in patients with scleroderma. In addition, we have a long-standing interest in the ways in which racial differences affect disease manifestations in relation to rheumatic disorders. view more