Research Areas
Genomic and Targeted Approaches for Cancer Gene and Therapeutic Target Discovery
Research Interests
Cancer is a complex disease involving alterations in multiple genetic and epigenetic factors and signaling pathways. Due to its complexity and the ability of cancer cells to evolve rapidly under treatment, achieving durable cancer treatment outcomes is a challenging problem. Thus, an in-depth molecular understanding of cancer initiation and progression is essential for developing effective therapies. To identify and characterize critical cancer vulnerability genes and their downstream networks, we utilize genomic and targeted approaches. Our key areas of research are:
Identification of Novel Tumor Suppressors and Oncogenes Using Large-Scale Functional Genomics Screens
Tumor suppressor genes and oncogenes are crucial in cancer growth and progression. Most cancers exhibit the activation of multiple oncogenes and the inactivation of tumor suppressor genes. Our goal is to identify these genes using functional genomics approaches, including shRNA, CRISPR/Cas9-based, and/or ORFome-based library screening. We also analyze patient sample datasets to identify genes critical for cancer growth and progression. These screens employ both in vitro and in vivo methods using human and mouse model-based systems.
Understanding the Mechanism of Action of Novel Tumor Suppressors and Oncogenes
Our second objective is to determine how specific oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes drive cancer initiation and progression. We use assays to measure global changes in DNA, RNA, and protein content of cells, including next-generation sequencing-based methods such as ATAC-sequencing, RNA-sequencing, among others. These studies provide insights into the mechanisms and signaling pathways through which these oncogenes and tumor suppressors predispose individuals to various cancers.
Targeting Cancer Vulnerability Genes and Pathways for Improving Cancer Treatment
Given the intricate nature of cancer, achieving durable and effective treatment responses remains a significant challenge. Therefore, there is a pressing need to develop innovative and effective therapeutic strategies. Our primary objective is to identify new drug targets and enhance the efficacy of existing therapies to advance cancer treatment. We utilize large-scale functional genomics screens to discover targetable cancer vulnerability genes and evaluate their potential clinical utility through preclinical mouse models. Targeting these novel cancer vulnerability genes, either alone or in combination with current therapies, has the potential to significantly impact the treatment of large percentage of human cancers.
