The Gospocic group studies how epigenetic pathways and gene expression regulate brain plasticity in the context of social behavior and aging by working with a unique ant species Harpegnathos saltator. We take a multidisciplinary approach and combine functional genomics, biochemistry, and behavioral assays in H. saltator, as well as the conventional Drosophila and mouse models to expedite genetic screening and provide evolutionary context to identified epigenetic pathways.

Specialty Areas: epigenetics, chromatin biology, gene regulation, social behavior, aging, neurodegeneration

The Solmonson lab is interested in how the placenta senses and achieves metabolic homeostasis between the adult and fetal compartments during pregnancy. 

In the Izumi Lab, with the ultimate goal of identifying druggable molecules/pathways in pediatric genetic disorders, we investigate the molecular mechanisms of pediatric genetic disorders due to chromosomal abnormalities and chromatin protein mutations. We employ novel genetic approaches by using patient-derived samples, induced pluripotent stem cell models and mutant mouse models.

The Tong lab studies the cellular and molecular mechanisms of cardiovascular diseases associated with systemic metabolic disorders, particularly heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and atrial fibrillation (AF), with an eye toward translating these findings into innovative solutions to clinical problems.

The Tower lab integrates multi-omics-based approaches in the fields of musculoskeletal development, homeostasis, repair and regeneration. 

The goal of the Center is to support pre-clinical research that uncovers the mechanisms of pediatric musculoskeletal disorders and explores potential new therapies.

Research conducted by the Nomellini Lab utilizes animal models as well as human samples to examine the interaction between the innate and adaptive immune responses that occur after injury or infection, and the heterogeneity of the immune responses that occur in each individual. Led by Vanessa Nomellini, M.D., Ph.D., our lab ultimately aims to develop personalized immune therapies to reverse the immunosuppression that can occur in ICU survivors.

Ascending somatosensory circuitry that shapes the perception of touch and pain. We study the development, function and dysfunction of ascending somatosensory pathways.

We investigate the neuro-hormonal basis for complex eating behaviors and blood glucose control, with the ultimate goal of designing new methods to prevent and treat extremes of body weight, blood glucose, and associated disorders of mood and metabolism.

The over-arching theme of the Weaver Lab is to deeply understand how proteolytic factors mediate diverse physiological functions.