Assistant Professor, Department of Biological Sciences,
BITS Pilani, Pilani Campus
Cancer growth, invasion, and metastasis are influenced by the complex interactions within the tumor microenvironment (TME), which comprises various cell types, including cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), immune cells, and vascular networks, along with the extracellular matrix. These components collectively regulate tumorigenesis, making the TME a promising target for therapeutic intervention. Our research efforts converge on unraveling this complexity, with the following aims:
Investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the activation of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in the tumor microenvironment during the transition from premalignant to malignant states. Focus on delineating the intricate interplay between intrinsic factors, such as nuclear structure and chromatin organization, and extrinsic factors, including growth factors and hormonal signaling, to understand their collective impact on CAF activation.
Utilising advanced technologies, including advanced imaging techniques, spatial transcriptomics, mass spectroscopy imaging, as well as with 3D in vitro tumor models,we aim to comprehensively characterize the components of the tumor microenvironment that contribute to tumor progression and treatment resistance. This involves mapping the spatial distribution of various stromal cell types, deciphering their molecular profiles, and identifying key signaling pathways and metabolic signatures implicated in tumor-stromal interactions.
Development of novel therapeutic strategies targeting the tumor stroma with a specific focus on exploiting vulnerabilities in the signaling networks that regulate CAF activation. This includes identifying druggable targets within the tumor microenvironment, designing precision therapies to disrupt tumor-promoting functions of CAFs, and assessing the efficacy of these interventions in preclinical models and clinical trials to enhance the overall effectiveness of anticancer therapies.
Investigate sex and gender disparities in cancer incidence, progression, and treatment outcomes, with a particular emphasis on elucidating the role of sex hormone signaling in non-reproductive tissue cancers. Utilizing epidemiological data, molecular profiling, and experimental models we aim to dissect the underlying mechanisms driving sex-specific differences in cancer susceptibility and therapeutic responses and developing personalized approaches for cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
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