The focus of the Chan laboratory is to understand the molecular basis of breast and brain cancers. Our research focuses on two areas of investigation.
First, we are interested in identifying and characterizing novel tumor suppressor genes in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) and breast cancer, two malignancies which cause significant morbidity and mortality. Large-scale genome-wide strategies have enabled the high-thoroughput identification of genes that are mutated, deleted, or epigenetically silenced in cancer. We utilize these genome-wide genetic and epigenetic strategies to identify and characterize novel cancer genes that are important for the initiation and progression of breast cancer and GBM. Using integrated genomic approaches, we have identified a collection of genes that are common targets of multiple modes of inactivation in these cancers. Many of these genes predict for clinical outcome. The Chan laboratory is currently focused on:
Discovery of novel tumor suppressor genes in breast cancer and GBM by using combined genome-wide mutation and methylation analysis. We are currently working to elucidate the function of a number of promising candidate genes.
Understanding the networks of genes that are commonly inactivated in cancers of different histologic origin.
Using combined genomic analysis to develop clinically useful biomarkers for breast cancer and GBM.
Second, Dr. Chan's lab studies the molecular mechanisms of the G2 DNA damage-dependent checkpoint. Using genetic models in human somatic cells, his group seeks to determine the functional roles played by p53-dependent and p53-independent pathways in G2 checkpoint control. Dr. Chan's present efforts are in the following areas:
Defining the relative roles played by 14-3-3 sigma, the checkpoint kinase chk2, and cdc25A in effecting G2 arrest in response to DNA damage.
