Who We Are

Welcome to our lab, where we specialize in unraveling the mysteries of respiratory diseases, with a particular emphasis on emphysema. Through advanced techniques like genotyping, PCR analysis, and cell culture, we explore the genetic and molecular basis of emphysema. Surgical precision allows us to model and study the disease in animals, while western blotting reveals key protein expressions. Our collaborative approach brings together experts from various fields to accelerate progress. Join us in our mission to transform respiratory health

Principal Investigator (PI)

Brian Varisco, MD

Professor of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences

Vice Chair of Research, Department of Pediatrics

Director of Laboratory Research, Arkansas Children’s Research Institute


Andrea Edwards, PhD

Principal Staff Scientist

Arkansas Children's Research Institute

Elham Shahreki, MD

Senior research assistant

Arkansas Children's Research Institute