The Cancer Biology Program (CBP) investigators study the basic biology of cancer. The CBP currently has 58 members, including 26 full members who hold over $9 million in extramural research funding.
CBP researchers use biochemical, genetic and other cutting-edge approaches to examine the biological mechanisms underlying the development, progression and metastasis of various cancers.
Several CBP investigators are studying the processes involved in cancer initiation and tumor formation. CBP investigators study the mechanisms that cells use to recognize and repair alterations in their DNA, allowing them to maintain genomic integrity. Others are studying how viruses and other agents promote the development of certain cancers. This will provide insight into how normal cells become cancer cells and may suggest new approaches to help prevent tumor development.
An area of shared research interest is understanding how the tumor microenvironment determines tumor behavior and patient response to cancer therapy.
CBP investigators study the interactions between cancer cells and tumor components and how these interactions affect tumor growth and metastasis.
Another research focus aims to understand the immune response to cancer and mechanisms that suppress this response in tumors. CBP investigators study the function of immune cells and why their function changes in tumors. Other studies seek to develop ways to stimulate the function of immune cells in tumors. Results of these studies will help identify novel approaches to promote the immune system and inhibit cancer growth.
Learn more about the program