Kirienko Lab

Welcome to our research laboratory! We focus on advancing our understanding of key biological processes and developing innovative health solutions. Our PhD student's team specializes in four main areas:

1. Antimicrobial Resistance and Immune Response
   Lois explores how lipid metabolism influences immune responses to infections. Using Caenorhabditis elegans as a model, her research aims to uncover mechanisms by which lipid-related processes regulate defense against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, potentially leading to new ways to enhance immunity.
2. Pathogen Virulence and Competition
   Qi investigates the virulence mechanisms and competitive strategies of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. By studying rhamnolipid production and R pyocins, Qi aims to understand how these factors contribute to bacterial colonization, pathogenesis, and interstrain competition.
3. Mitochondrial-Targeted Cancer Therapies
   Megan and Meika focus on developing therapies for leukemia by targeting mitochondria in cancer cells. Their research involves identifying and testing small molecules (mitocans) that can selectively kill leukemic cells while sparing healthy ones, aiming to enhance existing cancer treatments.
4. Novel neurodegenerative deaseases treatment
   We collaborate with the BioPharmaceutical Company AstraZeneca to investigate new mitophagy-targeted drugs for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Huntington's diseases.

Our lab is committed to pushing the boundaries of science to improve human health. Explore our research and join us in this mission.