The Brett lab is focussed on using the methods of structural biology, biophysics, biochemistry, and cellular biology to understand molecular mechanisms underlying disease pathologies. Our current focusses are on chronic inflammatory airway diseases and Alzheimer's disease.

Our research on chronic airway disease is focussed on cystic fibrosis. We have identified a unique family of regulator proteins, the CLCA family, that regulate the TMEM16 family of chloride channels. Our research investigates the structural and biophysical mechanisms of CLCA potentiation of TMEM16 channels, as well as their role in airway biology and mucosal immunology.

Our research on Alzheimer's disease focusses on microglial receptors and their role in AD pathogenesis. Current focus is on TREM2, a scavenger receptor expressed on microglia that signals for important microglial functions. We use structural, biophysical, and cellular methods to understand how various ligands engage and signal through TREM2. 

• Lab Website

cystic fibrosis

I currently serve as Co-Director for the Biochemistry, Biophysics, and Structural Biology (BBSB) PhD program and serve on the steering committee. I am committed to maintaining and increasing the quality of the BBSB program and supporting its students, as well those of other DBBS programs.
I serve as a coursemaster for the Structural Biology Journal Club. 

My mentoring approach involves working closely with trainees on all aspects of their project and career objectives. Past trainees have been very successful in obtaining competitive fellowships, and have progressed to prominent independent positions.

The Brett lab is committed to support, wellness, diversity, and inclusion.