Our Science – CCBB Website
Cell and Cancer Biology Branch
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Research
The focus of the Cell and Cancer Biology Branch is the molecular mechanisms involved in solid cancer progression and metastasis. Two areas of emphasis are 1) the investigation of cancer stem cells, i.e. treatment-resistant metastasis-initiating cells, and 2) the interaction of epithelial tumor cells and the microenvironment to promote functions such as angiogenesis that contribute to progression. Within our common areas of interest, the PI's investigate a variety of organ systems including lung, breast, ovarian, and prostate. Strengths of the Branch include the balance of common interests in an integrated area of cancer biology with a diversity of expertise and a mix of investigators with clinical and basic research training. CCBB provides its members with an involved community that brings various perspectives to problems of cancer progression and metastasis. This is complemented by the participation of CCBB PI's in a number of trans-CCR research consortia, which provide a vibrant opportunity for multiple investigators to collaborate and share ideas within narrowly focused areas of research. Brief synopses of research interests are as follows:
Dr. Kelly's interest centers upon the identification and characterization of
signaling pathways that mediate cancer progression and metastasis, with particular attention to pathways that function in prostate cancer metastasis. The laboratory uses two complementary approaches, genetically engineered mouse models and xenograft models, to address mechanistic questions concerning the origin of PC metastasis, metastatic colonization of secondary organs, and therapeutic responses.
Dr. Liu's research interest is to investigate the molecular mechanism of TNF signaling and particularly to study the regulation of TNF-induced apoptotic and necrotic cell death. The research of Dr. Liu's lab is carried out at molecular and cellular levels using genetically modified cells in culture in addition to transgenic/knockout mouse models.
Dr. Linnoila is interested in the pathology and molecular mechanisms of lung carcinogenesis. Her laboratory is investigating neuroendocrine differentiation in normal and neoplastic lung and the contribution of peripheral airway cells to lung carcinogenesis and stem cell microenvironment (niche). The goal of the laboratory is to develop clinically relevant mouse models for human lung cancers.
This page was last updated on 2/22/2012.
