Emeka Okeke

Emeka Okeke is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology at Northeastern University, affiliated with the College of Science. His research focuses on understanding molecular mechanisms of inflammatory responses in innate immune cells like neutrophils and macrophages, with a particular emphasis on neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) and their roles in disease pathology. The Okeke Lab employs a multidisciplinary approach combining immunology, biochemistry, bioengineering, and pharmaceutical sciences to develop targeted therapies for dysregulated inflammation.

Key research areas include:

• NET formation and their contributions to sepsis, cancer, and autoimmune disorders
• Engineered nanomaterials for therapeutic delivery to immune cells
• Regulatory T cell interactions with innate immune pathways

Recent work has explored potato-derived bioactive peptides for anti-inflammatory applications and vaccine nanodiscs for enhanced CD8+ T cell responses. Notably, his lab has received a 2025 Tier 1 Award from Northeastern University to advance cross-disciplinary research initiatives.

Lab locations:

• Mugar Building, 360 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115