Cancer Biology
Cancer research in the Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology is focused on understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms that underly tumor growth and metastasis, with a particular focus on solid tumors such as breast, prostate, ovarian, skin and brain cancer. In addition to investigating the novel biological aspects that contribute to these deadly diseases, ACB investigators are also committed to identifying new therapeutic targets and biomarkers that could lead to improved cancer treatment in the future. A diverse set of research approaches are used to support these research goals including yeast and mammalian cell culture models; sophisticated proteomic, transcriptomic and epigenetic profiling; and genetically engineered and xenograft animal models of cancer. Many of our researchers also collaborate closely with clinical oncology colleagues to carry out translational studies aimed at developing bench-to-bedside strategies for improving disease outcomes for cancer patients.