The Department of Cancer Biology was formed in April, 2000, and thus represents the newest basic science department within the School of Medicine. The department administers the Cancer Biology Graduate Program and teaches Cell and Tissue Biology to the first year medical students.
Research activities in the Department of Cancer Biology focus on microenvironmental influences on cellular phenotype, in particular as it relates to host/tumor interactions. Faculty have expertise in growth factors, cytokines, and chemokines; extracellular matrix and matrix-degrading enzymes; cellular adhesion molecules and cytoskeleton; and signaling pathways that respond to cell attachment. Investigators use state-of-the-art animal models, cell culture, and molecular and biochemical approaches to understand the mechanisms underlying the communication between cells and their environment.
