DF/HCC Program Affiliation

Translational Pharmacology and Early Therapeutic Trials
Prostate Cancer

Research Abstract

My current laboratory research efforts are focused on the discovery of novel therapeutic targets for advanced prostate cancer. I am interested in devising approaches to determine the key upstream activators of signaling pathways important in advanced prostate cancer, and to determine which drugs that target components of the PI3K and MAPK pathway or its upstream activators, are likely to be effective based on the mutational state of the cancer. We are currently evaluating several targeted agents in genetically engineered endogenous mouse models of prostate cancer, in parallel to human clinical trials. The long-term goal is to use mouse models with defined genetic mutations to guide selection of patients that will benefit most from the use of these compounds, thus moving the field in the direction of “personalized medicine”. In addition, each drug’s efficacy as a single agent and/or in combination with other targeted therapies will also be explored in mouse models. In parallel to the preclinical trials in authocthonous mouse models of prostate cancer, we are also designing rational early Phase I/IIclinical trials, with newly emerging therapies that target different components of these "driver" pathways.

Publications

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