Project 1: Pan-Cancer Master Regulatory Gene Networks
Each type of human cancer is marked by its own genetic and epigenetic hallmarks, explaining the varied behaviors and responses to therapies. Yet, many cancers share molecular and signaling patterns regardless of their tissue or organ of origin. This suggests a potential universal regulatory gene network driving malignant transformation. Uncovering this network could be pivotal in understanding cancer’s origins and developing treatments that are effective across various cancer types.
In this project, we aim to discover such a universal signature. We’re utilizing the robust predictive power of nSCORE and innovative machine learning workflows. These tools will analyze GeneRep-created reference gene networks of major human cancers from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Our findings will be contributed to the Network Data Exchange, followed by rigorous experimental validation using both in vitro and animal models.
Project 2: Liquid Biopsy Screening for Early Cancer Detection
This project involves developing a non-invasive cancer screening assay. It aims to detect cancer by analyzing key genes that control the initiation and progression of specific cancer types. We focus on:
- Abnormal chromosomal accessibility and expression profiles of cancer master gene regulators.
- Offering a more comprehensive and sensitive approach compared to existing methods.
- Detecting cancers with rare and novel mutations.
Our goal is to enhance early cancer detection through Liquid Biopsy Screening.
Project 3: Cancer Single Cell Analysis
We collect extensive genetic data from patients with high-grade glioma (HGG) to support ongoing and future research, and to deepen the understanding of glioblastoma pathology. Using the NETZEN computational platform developed in our lab, we aim to identify key factors and master regulators involved in tumor progression, response, and resistance to treatment. Our focus extends to:
- Identifying and validating complex networks of glioblastoma master regulators.
- Performing single cell gene expression analysis to identify rare cell types and understand cellular heterogeneity and interactions in cancer.
Besides brain cancer, our research also extends to understanding the biology of disseminated tumor cells (DTCs) in breast cancer. We’re developing methods to isolate DTCs from patient bone marrow and will undertake comprehensive single cell DNA/RNA sequencing to enhance the field’s understanding of DTCs.
Other Research Projects: