Greehey CCRI ZOOMinar Series Presents: Marielle E. Yohe, MD, PhD – NIH, Pediatric Oncology Branch

More than 30% of all human malignancies are driven by mutant RAS isoforms. In addition to well-characterized roles in malignant transformation and tumor progression, oncogenic RAS is also able to block differentiation within a cancer cell. We have previously shown that inhibiting the RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK MAP kinase pathway restores the differentiation of rhabdomyosarcoma cells by affecting the transcription of the master transcription factor, MYOG. Current laboratory projects include characterizing the effect of oncogenic RAS on the differentiation of neuroblastoma cells and identifying mechanisms by which rhabdomyosarcoma cells acquire resistance to MAP kinase pathway inhibitors. In addition, the laboratory is engaged in translational research aimed at identifying additional RAS-directed therapeutics for pediatric cancers.