Solid Tumor Program

Our broad-based program in solid tumor (carcinoma) biology at UMMS will provide a common forum for faculty in the basic science departments who have ongoing research programs or potential interest in solid tumor biology.

These are exciting times in carcinoma biology primarily because rigorous basic science is being used to tackle the most important and clinically relevant problems related to mechanisms of epithelial transformation and progression to metastatic disease.

Continued progress in these areas requires an infusion of more basic science coupled with an understanding of the complex biology of epithelia and solid tumors. The expertise which currently exists at UMass will be strengthened by additional recruiting to make a significant impact in the following inter-related areas:

  • The nature and function of solid tumor stem cells  Lyle Laboratory
  • Mechanisms of epithelial transformation
  • Mechanisms of carcinoma invasion and metastasis
  • Contribution of chronic inflammation and infection to carcinogenesis
  • Mechanisms used by carcinoma cells to evade apoptosis
  • Contribution of specific signaling pathways to carcinoma progression
  • The role of the epithelial to mesenchymal transition in carcinoma progression
  • The role of hypoxia in facilitating tumor spread
  • Molecular profiling of solid tumors
  • Use of mouse models to gain insight into mechanisms of carcinogenesis and progression
  • Studies on model organisms (flies, worms) that provide insight into epithelial cell biology, tissue remodeling and cell movement

The major goal of this program is to cultivate an active interest in solid tumor biology among a broad spectrum of faculty members.  There are labs whose ongoing research programs may not be cancer-focused at face value, but that actually may be highly relevant to solid tumor biology.  Remember that some of the ‘hot’ molecules in cancer at the moment such as Snail and Twist were identified first in Drosophila.

It is essential is that discussions occur between cancer biologists, as well as between cancer biologists and scientists in other disciplines to identify possible projects that may be relevant to the biology of solid tumors.  Our purpose is to faciliate discussions and interactions that lead to collaborations and funding for these projects.  Mechanisms to achieve this include:

  • Web resource pages listing interested faculty, information on relevant projects in faculty labs and cancer-related funding opportunities.
  • A ‘pilot-feasibility’ grant program to provide seed money to foster collaborations among labs.
  • Discussion forums for research projects in the context of solid tumor biology.