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Cancer Biology

The Cancer Biology program at the OSUCCC – James focuses on fundamental science research with the goal of making breakthroughs in understanding cancer and improving outcomes through collaboration with translational scientists.

Cancer Biology

    The Cancer Biology program at the OSUCCC – James focuses on fundamental science research with the goal of making breakthroughs in understanding cancer. The program aims to improve cancer outcomes through collaborative efforts with translational scientists, with a particular focus on the most frequently diagnosed cancers in our catchment area (CA). The OSUCCC – James’ catchment area is the state of Ohio.

    About Cancer Biology members

    The program promotes and supports collaborative, high-impact basic science research. Our collaborative environment has led to placement within high-impact publications and increased program funding.

    Co-Leader Dawn S. Chandler, PhD, Gina M. Sizemore, PhD and Matthew D. Ringel, MD

    In addition, the program emphasizes the career development of its members and supports and promotes community involvement in its research mission. It emphasizes inter-programmatic collaboration in alignment with the OSUCCC – James strategic plan. Cancer Biology supports these goals by holding monthly program meetings, providing pilot funds, offering structured member training and offering education and other initiatives.

    Co-Leader: Dawn S. Chandler, PhD
    Co-Leader: Gina M. Sizemore, PhD
    Co-Leader: Matthew D. Ringel, MD

    View all CB Program members

    Aims of the Cancer Biology Program

    The specific aims of the CB Program are:

    • Aim 1: Gene regulation and deregulation in cancer - Studies focus on identifying and mechanistically studying how genes are differentially controlled in cancer biology.
    • Aim 2: Mechanisms of cancer progression - Studies focus on understanding cancer progression and treatment resistance, emphasizing the development and use of novel technologies.
    • Aim 3: Tumor microenvironment and immuno-oncology - Studies focus on fundamental research on tumor microenvironments and tumor-immune interactions that regulate cancer growth and provide therapeutic opportunities.

    Future directions

    • Innovation in Cancer Biology with emphasis on priority cancers through development of new technologies, including tissue model systems, RNA- and nano-therapeutics.
    • Applications of machine learning/artificial intelligence (AI) for multiomics data sets.
    • Assessment of new regulators of the tumor immune environment.
    • Partnerships with clinical/translational scientists to improve prevention and treatment of cancer.