Rotation Projects

Rotation projects are designed to expose students to the molecular cell biology of solid tumors and to provide them with an appreciation for translational cancer research. Specific rotation projects, which are focused on the major themes of the lab, include:

Function and Regulation of Integrins (Cell Adhesion Receptors) in Cancer

• Epigenetic mechanisms that regulate integrin gene expression in human cancers
• Regulation of integrin expression and function during the EMT
• Role of specfic microRNAs (miRs) in regulating integrin function and signaling
• Contribution of integrins to carcinoma progression using mouse models of breast carcinoma

Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) Signaling, EMT and Carcinoma Progression

• Function and expression of VEGF receptors in carcinoma cells
• Regulation of VEGF transcription in response to EMT stimuli
• Role of miRs in regulating VEGF receptors and signaling
• Contribution of VEGF signaling to the behavior of aggressive, de-differentiated carcinomas

Nuclear Hormone Receptors and EMT

• Role of estrogen receptors in regulating the EMT
• Regulation of VEGF transcription by estrogen receptors