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The molecular basis of all cancers is the accumulation of heritable genetic and epigenetic changes that result in loss of function of tumor suppressors and/or the inappropriate activation of proto-oncogenes. The long-range goals of the Cancer Genetics and Epigenetics Program are to understand the molecular mechanisms that underlie genetic mutation and chromosomal and cell cycle alterations that are the hallmarks of all cancers. This group of 21 investigators derives from four different departments in the School of Medicine and the College of Arts and Sciences. The Program was initiated to facilitate the focused, interactive, study of chromatin architecture, transcription, replication, mutation, repair, and cellular checkpoints. This diverse but cohesive group meets monthly to hear presentations by its own members or by investigators in other relevant Programs – particular those of a more clinical nature. In this way, members of the Program learn the elements of each disease and can focus on those aspects that need to be understood at the molecular level. At the same, physician-scientists from other programs are made aware of emerging technologies and approaches that can be brought to bear on each cancer and its unique Achille’s heel. This year, the monthly Cancer Genetics and Epigenetics meetings have heard informative and informal talks by three new investigators in the Program (Drs. Bekiranov, Foltz, and Hall), as well as progress reports from investigators who received pilot funding for especially promising new investigations that could lead to outside funding (Drs. Grant and Mayo). A yearly research retreat off-site provides a venue for short platform talks and posters, thus keeping the group abreast of the research progress of the other members of the Cancer Genetics and Epigenetics Program in a comprehensive way on a yearly basis. This event also provides a forum for students and postdoctoral fellows to present their work before a critical audience. For almost a decade, the group's members have also organized yearly symposia hosting outside speakers on topics relevant to cancer genetics and epigenetics. These activities have stimulated creative and informed thinking on the cancer problem, and have provided the framework for many productive collaborations among Cancer Center members and with investigators outside of the institution. The goals of the Program are to develop comprehensive molecular models for the origins of genetic and epigenetic instability in cancer and to help uncover novel genes responsible for the development of neoplasms in diverse tumor types. In the short history of this Program, it has fostered several studies leading to the identification of therapeutic targets and more rational approaches to cancer therapy.
List of Cancer Genetics and Epigenetics Members
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