School Of Medicine Basic Sciences

  Spinal cord research Spinal cord and traumatic brain injuries impact millions of people worldwide. These injuries cause neuronal loss and the formation of scar tissue, which is believed to block the regrowth of axons-thin nerve fibers that carry electrical signals. As a result, recovery is limited, often leading to… Read More

Kidney Disease Vanderbilt School of Medicine’s Basic Sciences investigators study kidney cancer and kidney disease from molecules to patients. Teams link genomics, epigenetics, and metabolism to clear cell renal cell carcinoma initiation, therapy resistance, and tumor-immune microenvironment. Researchers build organoid, CRISPR, and mouse models to test pathways and identify drug… Read More

Heart Disease Vanderbilt University School of Medicine Basic Sciences researchers are investigating the heart at its foundations, from the molecular signals that control contraction and rhythm to the genetic and cellular pathways that drive atherosclerosis, inflammation, and heart failure. This bench-level insight fuels the next generation of diagnostics and therapies,… Read More

Gallbladder Disease Research Vanderbilt School of Medicine’s Basic Sciences researchers study gallbladder disease by probing the fundamental biology behind gallstone formation and biliary inflammation. Work commonly integrates cell and animal models with human biospecimens. Investigators explore genetic and environmental risk factors, including diet and the gut-liver-biliary axis, and apply modern… Read More

  Breast Cancer research Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast mutate and grow uncontrollably, forming tumors in ducts or lobules. It is the second most common cancer in U.S. women, with a 90% five-year survival rate due to advances in treatment.  School of Medicine Basic Sciences Breast Cancer… Read More

The School of Medicine Basic Sciences is a remarkable community dedicated to advancing the study of human biology, health, and disease. In addition to the award-winning faculty, postdocs, and students who are at the forefront of our cutting-edge research, a large part of our school’s success can be attributed to… Read More

National Cancer Institute molecular biologist André Nussenzweig delivered a School of Medicine Basic Sciences Apex Lecture on Dec. 15 about genome stability in mitotic and post-mitotic cells. Read More

Our School of Medicine Basic Sciences alums go far and wide. Check out the latest accomplishments from some of our alums! If you're an alum, let us know of any recent developments in your life. Read More

As 2025 draws to a close, we reflect on the achievements and contributions to science made by the School of Medicine Basic Sciences community over the past year. SOMBS facilitates outstanding fundamental science research across four departments, two institutes, 10 centers, and 18 core facilities. The work of our faculty,… Read More

Hannah Collins was named the 2025 Destination Biochemistry Stanley Cohen Postdoctoral Scholar in recognition of her exceptional training, innovative research on microglial signaling, and strong potential as a future scientific leader. Joining Bruce Carter’s lab, she brings significant expertise and new perspectives to studies of the Jedi receptor in microglial function. Read More