Faculty & Staff

There is longstanding evidence that invasive lung cancer is the end result of a multi-step process in which progressive molecular changes herald and accompany cytomorphologic changes. Our knowledge of these molecular events and the specific markers associated with the evolution from initiation to invasion is only partial. A number of specific biomarkers involved in oncogene activation or inactivation of tumor suppressor genes have been identified, but no single marker to date has been shown to have sufficient sensitivity, specificity, and predictive value to stratify all individuals. More likely, panels of markers will require development to best characterize the molecular profiles of susceptible individuals.

Our laboratory is engaged in studies designed to identify novel biomarkers of cancer. We have identified several serum proteins that, when taken together, may signify the presence of cancer. In addition, some of these biomarkers are associated with disease outcome. Hence, the have the potential to predict the course of the disease and help determine the most effective therapeutic strategy.

A different, but related, area of interest of our laboratory is the discovery of novel antibodies that are present in  patients' circulation, recognize cancer-associated molecules, and are correlated with disease outcome. Antibodies possessing this combination of cancer association and clinical correlation are investigated further for their therapeutic potential. This methodology has led to a first-in-human phase I clinical trial that is currently underway.