Molecular Oncogenesis

Cancer development involves a complex, multi-step process characterized by mutations in proto-oncogenes, tumor suppressor genes, and other genes that regulate cell division, metabolism, genome integrity, the cellular microenvironment, and cell death. These mutations enable normal cells to transform into malignant ones by allowing them to produce their growth signals, resist growth-inhibitory signals, evade apoptosis, develop blood vessels, and increase uncontrollably. Advances in human genome sequencing, functional genomics, proteomics, and genetically engineered mice have ushered in a new era of understanding the fundamental mechanisms of carcinogenesis.

The molecular oncogenesis and cancer genetics programs at the Greehey CCRI aim to identify and characterize the genes, gene products, and pathways involved in pediatric cancers. We recognize that insights gained from pediatric cancer models broadly apply to cancer research. We expect that at least half of the new recruits to the institute will specialize in cancer genetics and molecular oncogenesis.