Program Leader
Dennis K. Watson, Ph.D. Scientific Goal
Members of the Cancer Genes & Molecular Regulation (CGMR) research program at the Hollings Cancer Center have focused their scientific efforts in identifying novel genetic alterations associated with cancer initiation, progression and metastasis and assessing the functions of these genes and the proteins they encode. These genes and proteins then become new targets to validate for potential therapeutic intervention either as diagnostics, improved prognostics or therapeutics. The CGMR program activities and interactions provide a scientific environment that promotes the ability of investigators from diverse disciplines to work together. Interactions are facilitated through monthly meetings, program-specific seminars, targeted recruitment of faculty to enhance programmatic research and the development of new shared research resources. Notably, the development of several innovative animal model systems by CGMR members has been of critical importance in the ability of the program members to accomplish common research goals. The members of the CGMR research program have excelled in the elucidation of several novel cancer causing/regulating genes. For instance, the program harbors a world-renowned group in the study of the Ets family of transcription factors, which are critical in regulating epithelial-mesenchymal transformation, angiogenesis and invasiveness. Another particularly exciting collaboration among members of the program has recently led to the identification of the thromboxane signaling pathway as a key regulator of bladder cancer formation, with ongoing translational studies aimed at developing novel therapeutics based on this highly amenable target. The CGMR research program is composed of 19 faculty members representing six different departments. Program members are supported by the NCI ($3.1M total) and other peer- and non-peer-reviewed grants ($3.3M total). They have 143 cancer-related publications since 2003, 30% of which are intra-programmatic and 16% are inter-programmatic. Contact Us
To find out more about this research program, e-mail the Program Leader: Dennis K. Watson, Ph.D.
watsondk@musc.edu
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